Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)




What is AODA?
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) is a Provincial Act with the purpose of developing, implementing and mandating accessibility standards in order to achieve accessibility for persons with disabilities, with respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures and premises.
   
Disability:

(a) any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device,

(b) a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability,

(c) a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language,

(d) a mental disorder, or

(e) an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997; (“handicap”)

   
Statement of Commitment:
Semex is committed to ensuring that we are meeting the accessibility needs of all people in an effective and timely manner by removing and preventing accessibility barriers in accordance with AODA. Our commitment includes equal opportunity and the integration of accessibility legislation within our policies, procedures, programs, and training. We believe in treating all people with respect and understanding, and we support dignity and independence in our workplace.
   
Accessibility Plan:
Semex maintains an Accessibility Plan that sets the company strategy for removing and preventing accessibility barriers from the workplace and meets AODA requirements. The plan is reviewed and updated at least once every five years. Accessibility Plan is available upon request.
 
Accessibility Policy:
The purpose of this policy is to confirm Semex’s commitment to accessibility as an organization. This policy applies to all Semex staff members. Accessibility Policy is available upon request.