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The Corporation of the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula
By-law No. 2021-27
Being a By-Law to Establish Policies and Procedures for
Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulations for the Municipality
of Northern Bruce Peninsula
Whereas the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulations, in the areas of Information
and Communications, Employment, Transportation, the Design of Public Spaces and
Customer Service in accordance with Ontario Regulation 413/12 and 165/16 amending
Ontario Regulation 191/11 made under the Accessibility For Ontarians With Disabilities
Act, 2005, permits the Council of a municipality to enact a by-law to establish a policy for
Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulations;
And whereas the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula deems it necessary to
establish policies and procedures with respect to Integrated Accessibility Standards
Regulations;
And whereas pursuant to Section 9 of The Municipal Act, S. O. 2001, c.25, as amended,
provides that a municipality has the capacity, rights, powers and privileges of a natural
person for the purpose of exercising its authority under this or any other Act;
Now therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Northern Bruce
Peninsula hereby enacts as follows:
1. That Council hereby adopts the Integrated Accessibility Standards Policy attached
hereto as Schedule "A" and that Schedule "A" forms part of this by-law.
2. That Accessible Meeting/Event Guidelines be included on Schedule "B" attached to
this by-law.
3. That Employee Individual Accommodation Plan be included on Schedule "C" attached
to this by-law.
4. That Emergency Response Plan and Individualized Emergency Response Plan Form
be included on Schedule "D" attached to this by-law.
5. That Disruption in Service Notification be included on Schedule "E" attached to this
by-law.
6. That Customer Service Feedback Form and Record of Customer Service Feedback
be included on Schedule "F" attached to this by-law.
7. That By-law Nos. 2016-31, 2016-45 and any other by-law(s) inconsistent with this by-
law are hereby repealed.
8. That this by-law shall come into full force and effect upon third and final reading
thereof.
Read a First and Second Time This 26th Day of April 2021.
Read a Third Time, Finally Passed, Signed and Sealed This 26th Day of April 2021.
2
Mayor - Milt McIver
________________________
Clerk - Cathy Addison
________________________
Schedule A to By-law No. 2021-27
The Corporation of the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula
Policy: Integrated Accessibility Standards
Policy Number: 2021-27
Approved by By-law: 2021-27
Administered by: Clerk's Department
Purpose and Organizational Commitment
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula (the Municipality) is committed to
ensuring equal access and participation for people with disabilities. We are committed
to treating people with disabilities in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity and
independence. We will do so by removing and preventing barriers to accessibility and
meeting our accessibility requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with
Disabilities Act and Ontario's accessibility laws. The Municipality is committed to
meeting its current and ongoing obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code with
respect to non-discrimination. The Municipality is committed to excellence in serving
and providing goods, services or facilities to all customers including people with
disabilities. Our accessible customer service policy is consistent with the principles of
independence, dignity, integration, and equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
This policy establishes the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulations (IASR) in the
areas of Information and Communications, Employment, Transportation, Design of
Open Spaces and Customer Service for the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula.
This policy recognizes that the IASR does not replace or affect existing legal obligations
under the Human Rights Code or other laws respecting the accommodation of people
with disabilities. Identified within this policy are measures that the Municipality intends
on undertaking to fulfill ISAR requirements within the required timelines.
Definitions
The following definitions are applicable to this policy:
Accessible: capable of being entered or reached, easy to get at; obtainable; easy to
understand or appreciate.
Accessible Formats: may include, but are not limited to, large print, recorded audio and
electronic formats, Braille, and other formats usable by persons with disabilities.
Accommodation: the special arrangement made, or assistance provided so that people
with disabilities can participate in experiences.
AODA: Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act
Assistive Device: a technical aid, communication device, or other instrument that is used
to maintain or improve the functional abilities of people with disabilities. Personal assistive
devices are typically devices that customers bring with them, such as a wheelchair,
walker, or a personal oxygen tank, and that might assist in hearing, seeing,
communicating, moving, breathing, remembering, or reading.
Beach Access Routes: routes that are constructed and are intended for pedestrian use
by the public and that provide access from off-street parking facilities, recreational trails,
exterior paths of travel and amenities to an area of a beach that is intended for
recreational use by the public.
Communication Supports: may include, but are not limited to, captioning, plain
language, sign language and other supports that facilitate effective communications.
Disability: as defined by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and
the Ontario Human Rights Code, refers to:
- 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;
- A condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability;
- A learning disability, or dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in
understanding or using symbols or spoken language;
- A mental disorder; or
- An injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the
insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.
Guide dog: a highly trained working dog that has been trained at one of the facilities
listed in Ontario Regulation 58 under the Blind Persons' Rights Act, to provide mobility,
safety, and increased independence for people who are blind.
Maintenance: activities that are intended to keep existing public spaces and elements in
existing public spaces in good working order or to restore the spaces or elements to their
original condition, examples of which include painting and minor repairs.
Mobility Aid: a device used to facilitate the transport, in a seated posture, of a person
with a disability.
Mobility Assistive Device: a cane, walker, wheelchair, scooter, or similar aid.
Recreational Trails: public pedestrian trails that are intended for recreational and leisure
purposes.
Redeployment: the reassignment of employees to other departments or jobs within the
organization as an alternative to layoff when a particular job or department has been
eliminated.
Service animal: A service animal for a person with a disability if:
1.
The animal can be readily identified as one that is being used by the person for
reasons relating to the person's disability, because of visual indicators such as the
vest or harness worn by the animal; or
2.
The person provides documentation from a member of one of the following
regulated health professional colleges confirming that the person requires the
animal for reasons relating to the disability:
- College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario;
- College of Chiropractors of Ontario;
- College of Nurses of Ontario;
- College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario;
- College of Optometrists of Ontario;
- College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario;
- College of Physiotherapists of Ontario;
- College of Psychologists of Ontario; or
- College of Registered Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists
of Ontario.
Support person: in relation to a person with a disability, another person who
accompanies them in order to help with communication, mobility, personal care, medical
needs, or access to goods and services. Examples of a support person may include, but
is not limited to, sign language interpreters, a guide for a person with vision loss, and a
personal care assistant.
Unconvertible: not technically feasible to convert the information or communications or
that technology to convert the information or communications is not readily available.
General Provisions
Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
The Municipality's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan outlines a phased-in strategy to prevent
and remove barriers and address the current and future requirements of the AODA. The
plan will also outline various undertakings that have occurred in the past five years to
improve accessibility. The Municipality will report annually on the progress and
implementation of the plan, will post the report on the municipal website, and will provide
a copy of the report in an alternative format, upon request. The plan will be reviewed and
updated every five years by the Accessibility Coordinator in consultation with the Senior
Management Team. Feedback from members of the public will be incorporated into the
plan where possible.
Procuring or Acquiring Goods, Services or Facilities
The Municipality will incorporate accessibility criteria and features when procuring or
acquiring goods, services or facilities. Where it is not possible to do so, an explanation
will be provided.
Contractors and successful proponents conducting work on behalf of the Municipality
shall consider accessibility when purchasing goods or services in accordance with the
Municipality's Procurement Policy and incorporate accessible designs and features
where possible. All final documents provided to the Municipality must conform to Web
Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, Level AA. If requested, the
contractor/proponent shall provide written proof that all employees have been trained as
required
under
the
Accessibility
for
Ontarians
with
Disabilities
Act.
The
contractor/proponent shall be aware and sensitive to accessibility needs.
Training
Regardless of the format, whether it be online or in person, training will cover the
following:
- A review of the purpose of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act,
2005;
- A review of the requirements of the customer service standards;
- A review of the Human Rights Code and sections applicable to accessibility;
- Instructions on how to interact and communicate with people with various types of
disabilities;
- Instructions on how to interact with people with disabilities who use assistive
devices; require the assistance of a guide dog or other service animal; or require
the use of a support person;
- Instructions on how to use equipment or devices that are available at our premises
or that we provide that may help people with disabilities;
- Instructions on what to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing
our services; and
- Policies, procedures, and practices of the company pertaining to providing
accessible customer service to customers with disabilities.
Training Schedule
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula will provide training as soon as practicable.
Training will be provided to new employees, volunteers, agents, and contractors (typically
during the orientation process). Revised training will be provided in the event of significant
changes to legislation, procedures, policies, or practices.
Record of Training
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula will keep a record of training that includes
the dates training was provided, type of training provided, names of participants, and the
number of employees who attended the training. Training records are confidential and
participant names are recorded for administration purposes only and are subject to the
Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).
Public Meetings and Events
The Municipality will make a strong effort to ensure that meetings and/or events are
accessible so that people with disabilities are able to attend and participate to the fullest.
Municipal staff and organizers will reference and utilize Schedule "B" to By-law No. 2021-
27, Being a By-Law to Establish Policies and Procedures for Integrated Accessibility
Standards Regulations for the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula, when planning
a meeting and/or event.
Reporting
The Municipality is obligated to:
- File an accessibility compliance report every two years and post a copy of the
report approved by Council on the municipal website.
- Prepare a public report adopted by Council outlining accessibility progress within
the last calendar year to be posted on the municipal website.
Information and Communications Standard
Accessible Formats and Communication Supports
The Municipality shall notify customers that documents are available upon request and in
a format that considers the customer's disability. Notification will be given by posting
information on the municipal website. Upon request, we will provide information about our
organization and its services, including public safety information, in accessible formats or
with communication supports.
The Municipality will create, provide and receive information and communications in ways
that are accessible to people with disabilities.
If the Municipality determines that it is not technically feasible to convert the information
or communications, or the technology to convert the information or communication is not
readily available, we will be obligated to provide the person that requires the information
with an explanation as to why the information or communications are unconvertible and
a summary of the unconvertible information or communications.
Website and Social Media
All documents posted on the municipal website will conform to Web Content Accessibility
Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, Level AA.
Municipal staff will ensure that all final versions of plans, strategies, and presentations
provided by third-party contractors comply with WCAG when being posted on the
municipal website.
Staff will incorporate tips for creating accessible documents when preparing public
documents. Departments will ensure their documents are meeting accessibility guidelines
prior to posting on the municipal website and/or linking to the Facebook page.
Municipal staff will continually update the municipal website to make information as
navigable, understandable, and accessible as possible.
The municipal Facebook Page acts an additional avenue to making municipal information
accessible to members of the public. Staff will consider accessibility when creating social
media content.
Emergency Information
All municipal emergency procedures, plans and/or public safety information available to
the public shall be provided in an accessible format. Upon request, the Municipality shall
provide the emergency information in an alternate format, where possible.
The municipal Emergency Response Plan, attached as Schedule "D" to By-law 2021-27
establishes processes and procedures for appropriate responses to major emergencies,
and assigns roles and responsibilities for the implementation and execution of the plan in
the event of an emergency. The guidelines shown in this plan are intended to keep the
employees of the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula prepared if facilities become
unsafe. An Individualized Emergency Response Plan Form will be completed by the
applicable supervisor/manager and/or Chief Administrative Officer and employee where
an employee may require assistance in the event of a workplace emergency.
Employment Standard
The Employment Standard is applicable to employees and excludes volunteers and non-
paid individuals.
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula welcomes and encourages applications
from people with disabilities.
Recruitment
The Municipality will notify employees, job applicants and the public that accommodations
can be made during the recruitment and hiring process. The Municipality notifies
applicants when they are individually selected to participate in an interview or selection
process that accommodations are available upon request. The Municipality consults with
applicants and provides or arranges for suitable accommodation.
Notice to Successful Applicants
The Municipality notifies successful applicants of policies for accommodating employees
with disabilities when making offers of employment.
Informing Employees of Supports
The Municipality notifies staff that supports are available for those with disabilities as soon
as practicable after they begin their employment.
The Municipality provides information to employees of existing policies in place to support
employees with disabilities, including workplace accommodations. Employees will be
made aware of any changes to accessibility policies and/or significant changes in
legislations.
Accessible Formats for Employees
Where needed, the Municipality will also provide customized emergency information to
assist an employee with a disability during an emergency. With the employee's consent,
the Municipality will provide workplace emergency information to a designated person
who is aiding that employee during an emergency.
The employer will review all Individual Workplace Emergency Response Plans, attached
as Schedule "D" to By-law 2021-27 when the employee transfers to a different workplace
location, when the plan requires review/updating and when the general emergency plan
is reviewed/updated.
Employee Individual Accommodation Plan
An Employee Individual Accommodation Plan attached as Schedule "C" to By-law 2021-
27 will be completed for all employees that require alterations and changes to their work
plan to accommodate their accessibility needs. The Employee Individual Accommodation
Plan will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis, as necessary.
Return to Work Process
When an employee returns to work after being absent due to a disability, the employer
will prepare a return-to-work plan in consultation with the employee that is documented
and includes an Individual Accommodation Plan, attached as Schedule "C" to By-law
2021-27.
Performance Management
The employer will take into consideration an employee's Individual Accommodation Plan
and accessibility needs when conducting performance management processes.
Career Development and Enhancement and Redeployment
The employer will take into consideration an employee's accessibility needs when
providing career development and enhancement to their employees or redeployment.
Transportation Standard
The Transportation Standard outlines requirements for transportation service providers
including features and equipment on vehicles, routes and offered services being
accessible to people with disabilities. Although the Municipality does not directly provide
municipal transportation services, the Municipality is still committed to the requirements
established in the Transportation Standard and will promote and support all accessible
transportation systems within the Municipality via the municipal website and Facebook
Page, and stay up to date on new accessible transportation initiatives.
Within by-laws, policies and procedures, the Municipality will ensure the following:
- That taxicab owners and operators of taxicabs are prohibited from charging a
higher fare or an additional fee for persons with disabilities than for persons without
disabilities for the same trip; and from charging a fee for the storage of mobility
aids or mobility assistive devices.
- That owners and operators of taxicabs place vehicle registration and identification
information on the rear bumper of the taxicab.
Design of Public Spaces Standard
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula is committed to meeting requirements
outlined within the Design of Public Spaces Standard.
The Municipality shall incorporate accessibility into public spaces that are newly
constructed or redeveloped on and after January 1, 2016. The Municipality will ensure
that existing requirements listed under the Design of Public Spaces Standards for
recreational trails and beach access routes, outdoor public use eating areas, outdoor play
spaces, exterior paths of travel, accessible parking, and service-related elements
(counters, waiting areas, etc.) are followed. When developing recreational trails, the
Municipality will consult with the public and persons with disabilities. The Municipality will
provide maintenance and restoration of public spaces.
Customer Service Standard
The Provision of Goods and Services to Persons with Disabilities
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula will make every reasonable effort to
ensure that its policies, practices, and procedures are consistent with the principles of
dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity by:
- Ensuring that all customers receive the same value and quality.
- Providing goods and services in a manner that respects the dignity and
independence of people with disabilities.
- Using alternative methods where possible to ensure that customers with
disabilities have access to the same services, in the same place and in a similar
manner, if this does not present a health and safety risk.
- Considering individual accommodation needs when providing goods and
services.
The Use of Assistive Devices
Customer's Own Assistive Devices:
People with disabilities may use their own assistive devices as required when accessing
goods or services provided by the Municipality.
In cases where the assistive device presents a health and safety concern or where
accessibility might be an issue, other reasonable measures will be used to ensure the
access of goods and services.
Assistive Devices Provided by Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula:
The following assistive devices are available on a first come, first served basis and upon
request, to help customers access our goods and services:
- Personal sound amplifiers (for people with hearing impairments)
- Magnifying glasses (for people with vision impairments and loss)
- Notebooks and pens (for people who are unable to speak)
- Stylus (for people having difficulty navigating a touch screen device)
Guide Dogs and Service Animals
The Municipality welcomes people with disabilities and their service animals. A
customer with a disability who is accompanied by a guide dog or service animal will be
allowed access to premises that are open to the public unless otherwise excluded by
law. "No pet" policies do not apply to guide dogs or service animals.
A service animal can be easily identified through visual indicators, such as when it
wears a harness or a vest, or when it helps the person perform certain tasks.
When staff cannot easily identify that an animal is a service animal, they may ask for
documentation (template, letter, or form) from a regulated health professional that
confirms the person needs the service animal for reasons relating to their disability.
Food Service Areas:
A customer with a disability who is accompanied by guide dog or service animal will be
allowed access to food service areas that are open to the public unless otherwise
excluded by law.
Care and Control of the Animal:
The customer who is accompanied by a guide dog or service animal is responsible for
always maintaining care and control of the animal.
Allergies and Other Health and Safety Concerns:
If a health and safety concern is present, for example, in the form of a severe allergy to
the animal, the Municipality will make all reasonable efforts to meet the needs of all
individuals. Pursuant to the Municipality's obligations under the Human Rights Code
and the Occupational Health and Safety Act, each customer's accommodation needs
will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
As a courtesy, particularly if the person and service animal have been in attendance on
the premises for a long time, staff may ask whether the animal requires water, may
designate an area in which the service animal can relieve itself, or ask whether staff can
be of assistance pertaining to the service animal.
The Use of Support Persons
If a customer with a disability is accompanied by a support person, the Municipality will
ensure that both people may enter the premises together and that the customer is not
prevented from having access to the support person.
There may be times where seating and availability prevent the customer and support
person from sitting beside each other. In these situations, the Municipality will make
every reasonable attempt to resolve the issue.
In situations where confidential information might be discussed, consent will be obtained
from the customer before any potentially confidential information is mentioned.
Admission Fees:
The Municipality will not charge the support person any fees or fares where a person
with a disability requires a support person to access goods or services.
Notice of Disruptions in Service
Service disruptions may occur for reasons that may or may not be within the control or
knowledge of the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula. In the event of any
temporary disruptions to facilities or services that customers with disabilities rely on to
access or use goods or services, reasonable efforts will be made to provide advance
notice. In some circumstances, such as in the situation of unplanned temporary
disruptions, advance notice may not be possible.
The Notice of Service Disruption form included as Schedule "E" to By-law No. 2021-27
will be utilized and posted accordingly in the case of a service disruption.
If a notification needs to be posted, the following information will be included unless it is
not readily available or known:
- Goods or services that are disrupted or unavailable
- Reason for the disruption
- Anticipated duration
- A description of alternative services or options
Notification Options:
When disruptions occur, the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula will provide notice
by:
- Posting notices in visible places, including at the point of disruption, at the main
entrance, and the nearest accessible entrance to the service disruption, or on the
municipal website and Facebook page.
- Contacting customers with appointments.
- Verbally notifying customers when they make a reservation or appointment; or
- By any other method that may be reasonable under the circumstances.
Feedback
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula shall provide customers with the
opportunity to provide feedback on the service provided to customers with disabilities.
Information about the feedback process will be readily available to all customers and
notice of the process and the Customer Service Feedback Form--Accessibility Standards
for Customer Service (attached as Schedule "F" to By-law 2021-27) will be posted on the
municipal website. Feedback forms, along with alternate methods of providing feedback
verbally (in person or by telephone) or written (handwritten, delivered, website, or e-mail)
will be available upon request.
Customers can submit feedback to:
The Accessibility Coordinator
519-793-3522 X 229
56 Lindsay Road 5, Lion's Head, ON, N0H 1W0
[email protected]
Customers who provide formal feedback will receive acknowledgement of their feedback,
along with any resulting actions based on concerns or complaints that were submitted.
Self Service Kiosks
The Municipality will incorporate accessibility features/consider accessibility for people
with disabilities when designing, procuring, or acquiring self-service kiosks.
Schedule B to By-law No. 2021-27
Accessible Meeting/Event Guidelines
The following guidelines are provided to assist you in planning your meeting/event. The
guidelines include a variety of accessibility alternatives. Some alternatives may not be
available in the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula; however, the Municipality is
committed to accommodating accessibility needs, where possible.
Planning a Meeting
Preplanning:
- Organize any planning steps to make the meeting or event accessible with the
Accessibility Coordinator.
- Plan for the reception or refreshment area to be located where there is a clear
path of travel.
- Ask if attendees require any special accommodations.
Choosing a location:
- Favour locations with visible fire alarms for the safety of persons who are deaf,
deafened, or hard of hearing. If not, inquire about the facility's fire exit locations.
- Favour locations with a counter service area and telephone that is situated low
enough for use by a person who uses a wheelchair.
- Construction work at the location of your meeting or event may affect
accessibility. Other locations should be favoured.
- Where possible, consider portable listening systems or telephones with auditory
adjustments be made available for persons with hearing loss.
- Where possible, consider a sign language interpreter.
- Where possible, consider a TTY (Teletypewriter) service. A TTY is a device that
allows users to send typed messages across phone lines. Many people who are
deaf, deafened, hard of hearing, or who are deafblind may use TTYs to call other
individuals.
- Ensure staff at the meeting or event location are trained in accessibility
awareness.
- Assign a relieving area for service animals and provide water. Ensure there is
adequate space for service animals to accompany attendees.
Refreshments and Dietary Arrangements
- Ask attendees prior to the meeting or event if they have any dietary restrictions
and accommodate their dietary needs, where possible.
- Ensure that bendable straws and lightweight cups are available if beverages are
being served. Beverages should be at an appropriate height for persons using a
wheelchair or scooter.
- Consider table heights when choosing a location. Tables should be at an
accessible height for all individuals.
External Environment
Signage
- Signs should be clearly marked and visible from the street depicting the
address and name of the building where the meeting or event is located.
- Signage should be well-lit for a meeting or event taking place at night.
- Signage should have large font and use plain language.
- The signs should be free of glare.
- Provide additional signs relating to the meeting or event in large accessible
print.
Parking
- Ensure that there are sufficient accessible parking spaces available at the
meeting or event location. If not, arrange for more accessible parking spaces
close to the building of the meeting or event.
- There should be level access from the parking area to the main entrance of the
building. There must be a barrier-free path of travel from the parking lot to the
meeting entrance free of stairs, obstructions, slip hazards, etc.
- Ensure that parking areas are clear of snow and ice to avoid a hazard.
- Sidewalks separate from the road and driveway are favoured for safety reasons.
Interior Access
Entrances and Lobbies
- Entrance doors must be wide enough for the passage of a person using a
wheelchair, walker, scooter, or guide dog (2'8" to 3 ft.).
- If the main entrance is not accessible, have signage that clearly directs attendees
to the accessible entrance.
- Entrances shall be well-lit and centrally located.
- Ensure that doors are easy to open with a lever handle or an automatic door
opener.
- Signage shall have large font and plain language directing people to specific
areas. Signs shall be mounted approximately 60 inches from the floor for persons
using a wheelchair or with low vision.
- Consider additional staff at doorways to assist attendees with directions and
accessibility needs.
Elevators
- Elevators should be close to the meeting or event room and large enough to
accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or a guide dog.
- Braille buttons and raised numerals, sound and light signals are favoured. The
elevator control panel shall be at an appropriate height.
Washrooms
- Accessible washrooms should be at the meeting or event with at least one
accessible washroom stall with grab bars.
- Doors should have an automatic door opener/push button.
- Select a location large enough to accommodate wheelchairs, etc.
- Door signage clearly marked tactile sign or Braille lettering.
Hallways and Corridors
- Must be wide and clear enough to accommodate the passage of wheelchairs,
walkers, scooters, and guide dogs to travel to the meeting or event area,
washroom facilities, reception desk, and exits (width of 72 inches for persons in
wheelchairs to pass one another).
- Floors must be smooth and slip resistant, glare free, low pile carpeting, hardwood
flooring or tile.
- Interior doors must be a minimum of 32 inches wide.
- Lighting shall be adequate and adjustable for the environment.
- Stairs should have handrails on both sides.
Meeting Rooms
- Large enough to accommodate seating and mobilization for the anticipated
number of attendees using wheelchairs, scooters, guide dogs, etc.
- Easy to navigate and located on the first floor.
- Food and beverages located where they are accessible for all individuals.
- Accessible reception and refreshment area with a clear path of travel.
- The stage and speaking areas including podiums shall be clear of obstruction
and accessible to persons using a wheelchair or scooter. The stage should be
accessible to presenters and the audience physically, visually and audibly.
- Remove distracting noises (noise from nearby rooms, etc.)
- Close curtains and blinds to reduce glare of light from windows.
- Secure cables, wires, microphones, etc. to eliminate trip hazards and avoid
blocking the path of travel.
- Aim for accessible seating throughout the meeting or event room.
Access to Meeting Contents and Materials
- Produce meeting materials in an accessible format, where possible. Documents
should be easy to read, appropriate colour contrasts, a minimum of 12 point font,
Arial or Verdana font, non-glossy paper. Scan documents through an
accessibility checker prior to finalizing (Word or Adobe Acrobat) and make
changes where necessary.
- When posting meeting materials on the municipal website and/or Facebook
Page, all documents must conform to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
(WCAG) 2.0, Level AA.
- Indicate that materials can be provided in an alternate format, upon request.
- Use a television or projector screen for attendees, when necessary.
- Assign support attendants to assist persons with disabilities accessing
information.
Schedule C to By-law No. 2020-27
Employee Individual Accommodation Plan
Accommodation ensures that workers with disabilities have the tools they need to
succeed and helps employers hire or retain talented, competent, and creative workers
with disabilities.
Date (when the form was submitted):
Employee name:
Employee position and department:
Manager/Supervisor name:
Manager/Supervisor position and department:
Start date of accommodations:
End date of accommodations (if applicable):
Date when the accommodations plan (abilities and/or restrictions) will be reviewed
and/or updated:
Other information (emergency contact information, contact information for those
involved in the plan, employee's schedule, budgetary implications, etc.)
Tasks
Tasks the
worker
performs
differently
(climbing
stairs,
reading,
organizing)
Job functions
All job functions
involving those tasks
(entering the
workplace, written
communication with
employees and
customers, multi-
tasking) what job
functions are
essential?
Accommodations
List accommodations
that would allow the
worker to perform each
function (moving
throughout the
workplace without using
stairs, written
communication in
accessible formats,
prioritizing tasks)
Strategies
Outline strategies for these
accommodations (install a
ramp at the front door and
meeting on the first floor,
digital versions of
documents using email
and screen reading
software, calendars and
flowcharts with tasks and
priority levels)
Actions
Actions needed to
implement these
strategies (assign
someone to install a
ramp and select the
meeting place, purchase
the screen reader
software, buy calendar
system) who is
responsible for these
actions?
How the employer will provide accessible workplace information (if applicable):
How the employer will provide emergency information in an accessible format (if
applicable):
Employee signature:
Manager/Supervisor signature:
Accessibility Coordinator signature:
Other signature(s) (if applicable):
Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of the Municipal
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Information contained herein will
remain confidential and may be released to appropriate personnel for the purpose of the
Employee Individual Accommodation Plan only. Questions about said collection should
be directed to the Clerk at (519) 793-3522, X236 or via email at
[email protected].
Schedule D to By-law No. 2021-27
Emergency Response Plan (AODA Compliant) - Ontario
Intent
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula is committed to supporting the
well-being of its employees and visitors to our facility. The purpose of this
emergency response plan is to ensure human safety, minimize damage to
property, and assure rapid and responsive communication to all parties
involved. This plan has been created to address in a coordinated and
systematic manner all types of emergencies affecting the Municipality of
Northern Bruce Peninsula.
This plan establishes processes and procedures for appropriate responses to
major emergencies and assigns roles and responsibilities for the
implementation and execution of the plan in the event of an emergency. The
guidelines shown in this plan are intended to keep the employees of the
Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula prepared if facilities become unsafe.
*This policy is in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities
Act, 2005, Ontario Regulation 191/11 Integrated Accessibility Standards.
Definitions
Emergency: For the purposes of this plan, an instance or combination of
instances of unsafe conditions that pose a threat to people or property and
include instances of fire or smoke; natural disaster or severe weather; chemical,
biological, or radiological incidents; and structural failures.
Fire or smoke: Any blaze (fire) of combustible materials causing danger of
burns from fire or suffocation or choking from smoke inhalation. This can also
include fires nearby where there is a clear danger of the fire spreading to or
causing the air to become un-breathable due to smoke.
Natural disaster or severe weather: Any emergency caused by inclement
weather conditions or tectonic activity. Natural disasters include tornadoes,
floods, earthquakes, mudslides, hurricanes, lightning strikes, avalanches,
blizzards, ice storms, severe thunderstorms, and so on. In some cases, natural
disaster may also include excessive periods of intensely cold weather, or
excessive periods of intensely hot or humid weather.
Chemical, biological, or radiological incidents: This may include a release of
toxic chemicals or other dangerous agents within the vicinity, including natural
gas leaks; the release of harmful bacteria, viruses, or other biological dangers;
release of or exposure to ionizing radiation.
Structural failures: Any damage to property or premises that causes unsafe
conditions due to structural failure. Failures or pending failures include but are
not limited to bomb threats; collapsed walls, ceilings, or foundations; burst water
mains; electrical power outages; and so on.
Guidelines
Employees must report an emergency event immediately to a member of the
Senior Management Team or to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
Once the emergency has been confirmed, response or assessment teams will
be the first to respond to the incident. They will assess the severity of the
emergency and communicate immediately with the Certified Emergency
Management Coordinator (CEMC), or alternate, and assigned groups as
appropriate. Response or assessment teams are composed of at least one
person per department to coordinate and instruct co-workers. These teams will
coordinate emergency or evacuation efforts within their areas of responsibility.
Not all emergencies will require the same level of response. Appropriate
responses will be dictated by the severity of the event and its effect on the
health and safety of employees, visitors, and property. Only the Mayor, CEMC
or their designate has the authority to declare a state of emergency and can
activate this plan.
Refer to Emergency Management Plans prepared by the CEMC in the event of
an emergency for additional information.
Fire or Smoke:
- Rescue anyone in immediate danger.
- Alert employees of the fire and its location. Activate the nearest fire
alarm. Contact the local fire department by dialing 911 and follow all
instructions. Assign someone to guide the response personnel directly to
the fire.
- Contain the fire if it is relatively safe to do so. Close all doors, fire doors,
and windows near the fire. Shut off all fans, ventilators, and air
conditioners.
- Extinguish the fire if it is small. Obtain the nearest fire extinguisher and
pull out the safety pin. Aim the fire extinguisher nozzle low at the base of
the fire, depress the trigger, and move nozzle slowly upward with a
sweeping motion. Do not aim nozzle at the middle or the top of the
flames.
- If fire cannot be extinguished, evacuate the building immediately using
the nearest and safest exit. Keep low to the floor to avoid inhaling smoke.
Close all doors behind you as you leave.
- Report to the designated emergency evacuation area at your location.
Immediately report any employees, customers, visitors, contractors, or
individuals who have remained in the building or refused to leave.
- Do not return until it has been declared safe to do so by the fire
department.
If you cannot leave your workstation, or have returned to it due to fire or heavy
smoke:
- Close all doors to prevent the entry of smoke and fire.
- Dial 911 to notify the authorities and inform them of who and where you
are.
- Signal to the firefighters by any means possible to draw attention to
yourself.
- If possible, seal all cracks where smoke can get in.
- Crouch low to the floor if smoke begins to enter your area.
- Move to the nearest protected location in the room or area.
- Wait to be rescued and remain calm.
- Do not leave the area.
- Do not panic or jump.
- Listen for instructions or information which may be given by authorized
personnel.
Natural Disaster or Severe Weather
- Account for all employees and visitors, ensuring that everyone is inside
the facility.
- Close all windows, curtains, and blinds and instruct all employees and
visitors to move away from windows.
- If necessary, gather employees and visitors into the basement or, if no
basement is available, into bathrooms or another enclosed area.
- Listen to all weather reports for updates. Do not leave the basement or
enclosed area until the weather warning has been lifted.
- Stay calm. Encourage others to stay calm also.
- Have portable radios available, along with extra batteries.
- Be prepared for isolation at the premises. Ensure that emergency
equipment and supplies are available or can be readily obtained.
Emergency Survival Kits
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula recommends that all employees,
residents, visitors, customers, and guests prepare an emergency survival kit
including supplies that may be required to survive on your own for 72 hours.
Important items to include in the kit are:
- Candles
- Matches sealed in a waterproof bag
- Fire retardant blankets
- Flashlights
- Ample batteries
- Telephones that will work in a power outage
- A well-stocked first aid kit
- Non-perishable food
- Manual can opener
- Whistle to serve as an extra communication device
- Cases of bottled of water
Other items can include spare clothes, personal hygiene items, pain and allergy
relief pills, and assistive devices such as asthma inhalers, canes, and diabetic
medication.
Chemical, Biological, or Radiological
- Call 911 and report the situation and follow any instructions given.
- Notify managers and human resources immediately.
- Start evacuation procedures.
Structural Failure
The purpose of this procedure is to inform employees or visitors of precautions
to be taken in the event of a structural failure.
- In the event of a power outage:
o Gather flashlights and other needed supplies.
o Check on all employees and visitors to ensure their safety.
o Ensure all backup or emergency lighting is fully operational.
o If the power outage is prolonged, consult with managers to
consider dismissing employees for the remainder of the day.
- In the case of water, heat, or other utility disruptions:
o All attempts will be made to determine the cause of the disruption
and the probable length of shutdown.
o Where required, the local utility provider will be contacted to
assess and resolve the situation.
o If the shutdown is prolonged, consult with management to
consider dismissing employees for the day.
- If ceilings, walls, or the foundation collapse:
o Exit the building immediately following your evacuation
procedures.
o If exits are sealed:
- Find a sturdy piece of furniture such as a desk or sofa and
get under it, or directly beside with your body lower than the
height of the object.
- If you cannot fit, lean up against an interior wall.
- Cover your head and mouth to prevent dust inhalation.
- Avoid exterior walls and reduce movement around the
room.
o If trapped:
- Remain calm, orient yourself, and signal for help.
- Depending on the situation, signaling will include tapping
on walls or pipes to carry sound, calling out, or calling for
help using a cellular phone.
- If possible, move extremities slowly for circulation until help
can find you.
Employee and Visitor Evacuation Procedure
If an evacuation of the premises is necessary in response to an emergency,
employees and visitors must follow the steps below:
- Stop working and shut down any equipment in use.
- Proceed to posted emergency exit, following posted evacuation routes.
- Use stairwells instead of elevators.
- Touch doorknobs and door handles carefully to check for heat.
- Proceed to designated meeting area (unless otherwise instructed).
Bomb Threats
In the unlikely event of a bomb threat, it is impossible to distinguish valid threats
from hoaxes. Therefore, all threats will be treated as real to protect lives and
property, and the premises will be evacuated immediately.
Missing Employee or Visitor Procedure
- Employees will be directed by the response or assessment team
member to systematically search the premises, both inside and outside
(if safe to do so), including rooms, bathrooms, offices, and other areas.
- If a search of the premises proves unsuccessful, the response or
assessment team member shall notify local law enforcement by calling
911. Give a description of the missing person or a photograph (if
available). The authorities will assume control of the search from this
point.
- The family or responsible party of the missing person shall also be
notified. Explain what is being done to find the missing person and that
the local law enforcement has been notified as well.
- All previously contacted persons and law enforcement shall be notified if
the missing person turns up due to search, or of their own accord.
Alternative Formats
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula is dedicated to ensuring the
health and safety of all our employees, volunteers, visitors, customers, and
guests. As such, we will provide our Emergency Response Plan in a format that
takes into consideration individual needs.
It is critical that all our employees, volunteers, visitors, customers, and guests
know and understand our Emergency Response Plan. If the information
provided to you is unclear or is in a format that prevents you from fully
understanding our process, please contact the following person as soon as
possible:
Accessibility Coordinator
519-793-3522 X 229
[email protected]
56 Lindsay Road 5, Lion's Head
ON, N0H 1W0
Individualized Emergency Response Plan Form
(To be completed by an employee that may require assistance in the event of a
workplace emergency and their supervisor/manager and/or Chief Administrative
Officer)
1.
Employee Information
Name:
Position:
Department:
Location of workstation:
Name of supervisor/manager completing the form with the employee:
2.
Emergency Evacuation Assessment
Does the employee experience any of the following that could affect their ability
to quickly evacuate the workplace in the case of an emergency (check all that
apply)?
a) Mobility limitations- interference with walking, using stairs, joint paint, use
of mobility device (walker, scooter, cane, crutches, wheelchair, etc.)
b) Reduced energy- fatigue, tires easily
c) Respiratory impairment (a temporary or permanent medical condition,
caused by stress or exertion)
d) Emotional, cognitive or concentration difficulties - confusion or
disorientation
e) Vision impairment/loss
f) Hearing impairment/loss
g) Requires assistive technology or medication
h) Other (please specify)
3.
Communication Needs and Accommodations
Employee's preferred method of communication in case of an emergency:
Required assistive communication devices and/or accommodations (a person
with a hearing impairment may require an assistive device to receive
emergency evacuation information via text message, such as a pager):
4.
Conditions, Sensitivities, Disabilities and Accommodation Summary
Indicate any temporary or long-term conditions, sensitivities and/or disabilities
that may affect the well-being and safety of the employee during emergency
response:
Is emergency assistance and consent for coworkers to assist this person in the
case of an emergency required?
Yes
No
5.
Employee Personal Emergency Preparedness Kit
Is an employee personal emergency preparedness kit required?
Yes
No
Location of employee's personal emergency preparedness kit (if required):
6.
Emergency Evacuation Routes
Indicate the primary accessible evacuation route from the workplace noting any
accessibility accommodations required. Where applicable, include a map/fire
safety plan and identify the meeting location.
Acknowledgement and Agreement
I acknowledge that I have read and understand the Emergency Response Plan
of Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula and that information on this form is
accurate and hereby authorize the release of applicable personal information
contained within the form to designated individuals who may assist me in the
event of an emergency.
Employee Name:
Signature:
Date:
Supervisor/Manager Name:
Signature:
Date:
*Please provide a copy of this form including attachments to the Chief
Administrative Officer, employee, and supervisor/manager.
Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of the
Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy act and will be used
for the purpose of this form only. Questions about said collection should be
directed to the Clerk at (519) 793-3522, X236 or via email at
[email protected].
Schedule E to By-law No. 2021-27
AODA Customer Service Standards
Disruption in Service Notification
Dear Valued Customers,
The (insert goods or services that are unavailable) will be out of service for
(insert reason for disruption) from (insert appropriate date) until (if known, insert
appropriate date).
The following alternative services and options are available:
(list options)
(Insert map of area of disruption)
We regret any inconvenience this may cause.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator
at [email protected] or 519-793-3522 X 229.
Thank you for your understanding and patience. We appreciate your business
and look forward to seeing you again soon!
The Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula
Schedule F to By-law 2021-27
Customer Service Feedback Form
Accessibility Standards for Customer Service
Thank you for visiting the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula! We value
all our customers and strive to meet everyone's needs.
Please tell us the date and location of your visit:
Date:
Location:
1.
Were you satisfied with the customer service we provided you?
Yes
No
Somewhat
Comments:
2.
Was our customer service provided to you in an accessible manner?
Yes
No
Somewhat
Comments:
3.
Did you experience any problems accessing our goods and services?
Yes
No
Somewhat
Comments:
4.
How can we improve our customer service to make it more accessible?
Contact Information (optional)
Name:
Phone Number:
Email:
We are committed to improving accessibility and removing barriers within the
Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula and welcome your feedback.
To submit your form, please email [email protected]
For additional information regarding the Municipality's commitment to
accessibility, visit our website at or contact the Accessibility Coordinator at
[email protected] or 519-793-3522 X229.
Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of the
Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy act and will be used
for the purpose of this form only. Questions about said collection should be
directed to the Clerk at (519) 793-3522, X236 or via email at
[email protected].
Schedule F to By-law No. 2021-27
Record of Customer Service Feedback
(internal use only)
Accessibility Standards for Customer Service
Date feedback received:
Name of customer (if provided):
Contact information (if provided):
Details of feedback:
Details and date of follow-up:
Actions to be taken:
Staff member:
Date:
Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of the
Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy act and will be used
for the purpose of this form only. Questions about said collection should be
directed to the Clerk at (519) 793-3522, X236 or via email at
[email protected].