Who is Required to Comply With AODA?
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) aims to remove any boundaries or restrictions faced by those with a disability, with the goal to make Ontario accessible to all by the year 2025. In 2015, the AODA standards became law and by 2025, all organisations must comply with this set of new guidelines.
All organizations with 1 or more employee(s) in Ontario must comply with the AODA. The AODA applies to all municipalities in the province, as well as ministries and agencies of the Ontario government, non-profits, and businesses.
One crucial aspect of this legislation is the requirements for AODA compliant doors. This guide will walk you through the basics of AODA compliant doors, their benefits, and how to ensure your building meets these important accessibility standards.
What are AODA Compliant Doors?
AODA compliant doors are designed to meet specific accessibility requirements laid out by the AODA, ensuring that people with disabilities have safe and convenient access to public and commercial buildings. These requirements include:
- Minimum clear width: Doors must have a minimum clear width to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices.
- Accessible door hardware: Door hardware must be easy to operate for people with limited strength or dexterity.
- Door opening force: The force required to open doors should be minimal to ensure easy access for all users.
- Power-operated doors: In some cases, automatic or power-assisted doors are required to provide barrier-free access.
The Benefits of AODA Compliant Doors
- Improved Accessibility: By adhering to AODA guidelines, you ensure that your building is more accessible to people with disabilities, seniors, and others with mobility limitations.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Ensuring your building is accessible to all potential customers means a more inclusive environment, leading to a better overall customer experience.
- Compliance with Legislation: Meeting AODA requirements helps you avoid fines and legal complications associated with non-compliance.
- Positive Brand Image: Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility reflects positively on your business and can help build trust with your customers and the wider community.
- Competitive Advantage: Having an accessible building can give you an edge over competitors who may not have made the same investments in accessibility.
Steps to Ensure Your Building's Doors Meet AODA Requirements
- Consult with an Expert: Work with a professional door installation company with experience in AODA compliance to ensure your doors meet the necessary requirements.
- Perform an Accessibility Audit: Assess your current door infrastructure to identify any gaps in accessibility and develop a plan to address them.
- Choose the Right Hardware: Select door hardware that is both AODA compliant and suitable for your building’s specific needs.
- Train Staff: Ensure your staff members are aware of accessibility requirements and how to operate and maintain the doors properly.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance to ensure your doors continue to meet AODA requirements and function optimally.
AODA compliant doors are essential for creating accessible and inclusive spaces in Ontario. By understanding the requirements, you can ensure your building is welcoming to all users and complies with provincial legislation. Investing in accessibility not only benefits people with disabilities but also helps enhance your business’s reputation and customer experience. Reach out to a professional door installation company like City Automatics to discuss your building’s accessibility needs and find the best solutions to meet AODA requirements.