AODA at George Brown College
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) became law on June 13, 2005. Under this landmark legislation, the government of Ontario developed mandatory accessibility standards that identify, remove and prevent barriers for people with disabilities.
Effective July 1, 2016, the standards have been consolidated into one regulation, the O. Reg. 191/11: Integrated Accessibility Standards which includes the following:
- Information and Communication Standards;
- Employment Standards;
- Transportation Standards;
- Design of Public Spaces Standards (Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment); and
- Customer Service Standards.
The GBC AODA Accessibility Policy provides clear guidance on how the college will achieve the applicable obligations and responsibilities under the AODA and its Standards, guided by the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity. Please refer to the AODA Training Modules and related policies for further details.
GBC has a dedicated committee to address accessibility issues on an ongoing basis. The George Brown College AODA Committee is comprised of members who champion accessibility best practices, those who are accountable for the successful implementation of accessibility initiatives and AODA regulations throughout the college, and the AODA Coordinator who provides leadership and expertise across the college in support of GBC's accessibility strategy. This committee is responsible for key activities that include but are not limited to reviewing the annual status report, as well as the outcomes, deliverables and activities stated in our multi-year plan. For more information please contact aoda@georgebrown.ca.
View The College's Multi-Year Plan
Take 5 for Accessibility
One of the ways our community can support accessibility efforts everyday is to Take 5 for Accessibility at the start of college events and meetings. Using our 1-page guide can help make online meetings accessible for everyone.
Many face barriers in accessing information, communication and digital technology. Our simple tips can help increase access, learning and inclusion.
Service animals at GBC
Service animals are welcome anywhere on campus that's open to the public. It's the law in Ontario. And it's important to make sure that our campuses are inclusive and accessible for students and staff with disabilities. While on campus, please give priority to people who have disabilities and service dogs. Here are some helpful tips about service animals:
- When you see a service animal with a harness or vest, it means they're working. They're not pets, so don't touch them, and please don't make excitable noises that could distracting them from their work.
- When you are near an elevator, you should give the handler and the guide dog space and not crowd them. Service animals are welcome anywhere on campus that's open to the public. It's the law in Ontario. And it's important to make sure that our campuses are inclusive and accessible for students and staff with disabilities. To learn more, please visit Georgebrown.ca/aoda.
- When you see a service dog, ask the handler if you can pet or interact with it. Be careful not to give it food or treats.
Feedback
Your feedback helps us improve our accessibility and AODA compliance at George Brown College. If requested, we will respond within five business days.
To share feedback in alternate formats, email AODA@georgebrown.ca
