In Ontario, accessibility isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s the law. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), passed in 2005, lays the foundation for a more inclusive province. One of its key components is the Employment Standard, a regulation that directly impacts how businesses hire, retain, and support employees with disabilities.
But what exactly does the Employment Standard involve? And how can organizations go beyond checking the box to create truly inclusive workplaces? Let’s break it down.
What is the AODA Employment Standard?
The Employment Standard is designed to make accessibility part of everyday workplace practices. It applies to all organizations in Ontario with at least one employee and outlines legal obligations related to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of people with disabilities.
Some of the key requirements include:
- Accessible hiring practices: Employers must notify applicants that accommodations are available throughout the hiring process.
- Individualized accommodation plans: If an employee with a disability requires workplace accommodations, the employer must work with them to develop a plan that meets their needs.
- Return-to-work processes: Employers must have documented processes in place for supporting employees who return to work after a disability-related leave.
- Accessible performance management: Feedback and career development opportunities must be accessible and equitable for employees with disabilities.
At its core, the Employment Standard encourages organizations to see accessibility not as a one-time task, but as a long-term commitment to equity and belonging.
The bigger picture: It’s about culture, not just compliance
That’s where A Life Worth Living (ALWL) comes in. Our Business Accessibility Toolkit (BAT) courses are designed to help organizations of all sizes understand their obligations under the AODA, and more importantly, to put accessibility into practice in ways that are meaningful and sustainable.
If your organization is looking to strengthen its inclusive hiring practices and workplace culture, we recommend:
- Accessible Hiring and Recruitment: Learn how to design and promote job opportunities in ways that are inclusive to candidates with disabilities, and how to offer meaningful accommodations during the process.
- Creating an Accessible Workplace: This course dives into workplace policies, communications, and physical environments, helping employers identify and remove common barriers.
- Accessible Customer Service (AODA Standard): While not directly part of the Employment Standard, accessible service practices help reinforce a culture of inclusion across all points of contact.
Each BAT course is grounded in lived experience, practical application, and up-to-date legal knowledge because accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Inclusion is good for business
Beyond compliance, accessible workplaces are simply better workplaces. They’re more innovative, resilient, and representative of the communities they serve. According to research, inclusive organizations enjoy higher employee retention and engagement, and they’re better equipped to attract top talent in an increasingly competitive labour market.
By embracing the AODA’s Employment Standard and investing in real-world training through ALWL’s BAT courses, organizations don’t just meet legal obligations; they build stronger teams and a better future for all.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our BAT offerings at learn.alifeworthliving.ca and start making your workplace truly accessible today.