What is AODA?
Understanding the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
About AODA
What is AODA?
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a landmark legislation in Ontario, Canada, designed to ensure that all people, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate in society. The AODA sets specific standards for accessibility in key areas such as customer service, employment, transportation, and, importantly, information and communications technology—including websites.
What is AODA?
The goal of the AODA is to make Ontario fully accessible by 2025. This means that organizations, both public and private, must remove barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures, and premises. For businesses with a digital presence, this includes ensuring that websites and web content are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.
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Key Requirements of AODA
Web Accessibility
Organizations are required to make their websites and online content accessible by conforming to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, Level AA. This includes everything from text, images, and multimedia to navigation and interactive elements.
Compliance Deadlines
As of January 1, 2021, large private and nonprofit organizations, as well as public sector organizations, must ensure that their websites meet the AODA standards. Failure to comply can result in significant fines and legal repercussions.
Ongoing Commitment
Compliance with AODA is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment. Organizations must continuously monitor and update their digital content to ensure it remains accessible and compliant with the latest standards.
Non-compliance with AODA can lead to penalties, including fines of up to $100,000 per day for corporations.
Beyond the legal implications, ensuring accessibility is also a way to demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity, enhance your brand reputation, and expand your audience reach by making your website usable for everyone.
How AODA Impacts Your Business
We understand the challenges of navigating AODA compliance. Our automated solutions make it easy for you to meet Ontario's accessibility standards, protect your business, and create an inclusive online experience for all users.