Statement of Commitment / CEO message:

At BUILD IT, we are dedicated to fostering a barrier-free environment for our clients, employees, and all stakeholders who visit our premises or access our services and information. We fully support and uphold the principles and requirements outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR).

Our commitment to accessibility is driven not only by our legal obligations but also by our core values and our ongoing focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. We recognize our responsibility to create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all individuals.

To ensure continued compliance with accessibility legislation and to promote an inclusive culture, BUILD IT has implemented policies, procedures, and employee training. Specifically, we are committed to:

– Ensuring that employees involved in policy development, hiring, management, and the delivery of goods and services are fully informed of their obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code and the AODA.

– Providing equitable employment practices, including recruitment, evaluation, and selection processes that offer accommodation as required, while making applicants and employees aware of the availability of such accommodations.

– Offering accessible formats and communication supports (both digital and non-digital) upon request.

– Incorporating accommodations into our emergency response plans for employees who require them, with these plans available upon request.

– Developing and implementing individualized workplace accommodation plans as needed.

– Complying with the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation through the development and ongoing execution of a multi-year accessibility plan that outlines how BUILD IT will continue to advance accessibility across our organization.

Introduction
Build It strives to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities and actively works to remove and prevent barriers to accessibility. Our commitment to accessibility aligns with our goal of creating a culture that promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity.

This accessibility plan outlines the steps Build It is taking to comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR). It reflects our ongoing dedication to improving accessibility and ensuring that Ontario becomes a barrier-free province for all.

The plan will be reviewed and updated every five years and is publicly available on our website: https://buildit.ca/

Customer Service:
Ensured compliance with the Customer Service Standards by providing accessible services to individuals with disabilities. Implemented a feedback system to gather input on accessibility issues and addressed any concerns promptly.

Information and Communications:
Provided accessible formats and communication supports upon request. Ensured that our website complies with WCAG 2.0 Level AA standards.

Employment:
Adopted inclusive hiring practices to ensure fair access to employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Provided accommodations during the recruitment process and employment lifecycle.

Training:
Delivered mandatory training on accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code to all employees and new hires. Maintained records of training provided.

Customer Service:
Continue to provide accessible customer service and seek feedback for ongoing improvements.

Information and Communications:
Enhance the accessibility of our digital platforms and ensure compliance with updated WCAG standards.
Offer alternative formats for communication materials upon request.

Employment:
Further develop inclusive hiring and retention practices.
Introduce accessibility-related professional development sessions for managers.

Training:
Expand training programs to include practical workshops on creating an accessible workplace culture.
Update training materials as accessibility policies evolve.

Design of Public Spaces:
Incorporate accessibility features in any new builds or significant renovations of public spaces.
Develop and implement maintenance procedures