Photo courtesy Dr. Lowell McPhail

Ontario's proposed standard aims to increase accessibility within the built environment.

Ontario is requesting feedback from its residents on its initial proposed built environment accessibility standard. Developed by a committee representing members from the disability and business communities, the standard aims to remove barriers in buildings and other structures—including all new construction and extensive renovations—for people with disabilities. The draft standard proposes requirements for various categories of the built environment, including:
• common access—entrances, doorways, ramps, and stairs;
• exteriors—curbs, crossings, and street furniture;
• plumbing—washrooms, showers, and drinking fountains;
• communication—signage and telephones;
• buildings—air quality, acoustics, and lighting; and
• recreation—parks and trails.

According to proposed timelines, new construction will be expected to follow the standard within a year of it being passed as law, and major renovation between 12 and 36 months.

Although these requirements will not apply to existing buildings or new and existing houses, the government has plans to focus on retrofitting such structures to increase accessibility, bringing it closer to the goal of making Ontario accessible by 2025.

The proposed standard is available online for public review and input until October 16.