The AODA is a provincial law designed to improve accessibility for all Ontarians with disabilities by 2025. It mandates organizations in both public and private sectors to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility. The act applies to organizations with one or more employees operating in Ontario, with specific compliance deadlines based on organization size and sector.

One of the most significant components of the AODA is its focus on digital accessibility. Since January 1, 2012, all public-facing websites and web content must comply with WCAG guidelines at Level AA. This includes ensuring websites, online documents, multimedia, and digital platforms are accessible to individuals using assistive technologies such as screen readers.

Customer Service Standard: Requires accessible customer service policies and training for staff. 

Information and Communications Standard: Focuses on accessible formats such as PDF documents, Word documents, and HTML files. 

Employment Standard: Ensures accessible hiring practices and workplace accommodations. 

Transportation Standard: Addresses accessible public transit services. 

Design of Public Spaces Standard: Covers accessibility in outdoor spaces

To meet AODA requirements, organizations must: 

• Ensure websites and digital content conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA or higher. 
• Perform regular accessibility checks and audits of digital assets. 
• Remediate inaccessible PDFs, Word documents, and multimedia content. 
• Train employees on accessibility best practices and legal obligations. 
• Provide accessible customer feedback mechanisms. 

Compliance with the AODA is not only a legal obligation but also a strategic advantage. By embracing accessibility design principles and ensuring screen reader accessibility, organizations broaden their reach, improve user experience, and demonstrate social responsibility. Non-compliance can lead to legal penalties, reputational damage, and exclusion of a significant portion of the population.

Our team specializes in helping organizations across Ontario achieve full AODA compliance through expert accessibility remediation services. We assist with: 

• Creating AODA compliant PDFs and remediating existing documents. 
• Ensuring websites meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. 
• Conducting thorough accessibility checks and ongoing monitoring.