Ensuring that your employees across British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec receive comprehensive accessibility training is essential for compliance with regional regulations and for fostering an inclusive workplace. Given that Ontario has specific legislation—the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)—it’s crucial to provide training that encompasses AODA requirements and is available in both English and French.

Accessibility Training Options:

Accessibility Services Canada:

AODA Training: This organization offers updated AODA training programs in both English and French. The training covers the five AODA Standards: Customer Service, Information and Communications, Employment, Design of Public Spaces, and Transportation. It’s designed to be interactive and includes knowledge testing to ensure participants can apply accessibility best practices in their roles.

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS):

AODA Course: CCOHS provides a one-hour AODA training course available in both English and French. The course offers a comprehensive overview of the AODA and its standards, suitable for employees across various sectors.

Accessibility Regulations in British Columbia and Quebec:

British Columbia:

Accessible British Columbia Act: Enacted in June 2021, this act provides a framework to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility. Organizations are required to establish accessibility committees and develop accessibility plans to address barriers in services and employment. The act emphasizes principles such as inclusion, adaptability, diversity, collaboration, self-determination, and universal design.

Adaptable Dwellings Requirement: As of March 10, 2025, large new condominium and apartment buildings in BC are required to have 100% adaptable suites. This includes accessible clearances through doorways, accessible paths of travel to living spaces, appropriately placed switches and controls, and reinforcement of bathroom walls to allow future installation of grab bars.

Quebec:

While Quebec does not have specific accessibility legislation akin to the AODA or BC’s Accessible British Columbia Act, organizations are still subject to the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, which prohibits discrimination based on disability. It’s advisable for organizations operating in Quebec to adopt best practices in accessibility to ensure inclusivity and compliance with human rights obligations.

Recommendations:

Unified Training Approach: Implementing a training program that covers the AODA standards and general accessibility principles will benefit all employees, regardless of their location. This approach ensures compliance with Ontario’s specific requirements and promotes a consistent understanding of accessibility across your organization.

Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates to accessibility legislation in BC and QC to ensure ongoing compliance. Engaging with local accessibility organizations or consulting with legal experts can provide valuable insights into regional requirements and best practices.

By providing comprehensive, bilingual accessibility training and staying informed about regional regulations, your organization will be well-positioned to foster an inclusive environment for all employees and clients.

-HRInsider Staff

Yes, that would be a fantastic option – I would also recommend these resources:

Accessibility Duties for Federal Employers
Accessibility Laws Across Canada
Accessibility Policy Template

Best of luck with your training!
-HRInsider Staff