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1. APPLICATION
This policy applies to all Alectra employees, Board Directors, contractors, and consultants and their interactions with each other.
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2. PURPOSE
2.1 To provide the overarching framework that guides the review and development of other corporate policies, standards, procedures and guidelines with a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment while complying with the standards developed under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (“AODA”), 2005.
2.2 To provide a Statement of Commitment that highlights Alectra’s organizational commitment to meet the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities ensuring a culture of inclusivity and care.
2.3 To provide the general requirements that are applicable to all Alectra IASR procedures, prioritizing accessibility, respect and the well-being of all employees.
2.4 To establish the Integrated Accessibility Standards, Ontario Regulation 191/11 for Alectra in accordance with the AODA, 2005.
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3. STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT
3.1 Alectra is committed to treating all individuals in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity and independence. Alectra believes in the principles of integration and equal opportunity and is committed to creating a barrier-free environment by identifying, removing and preventing barriers that may limit persons with disabilities to foster an inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
3.2 Alectra will ensure that programs, services, goods, information, facilities, vehicles and employment opportunities meet the needs of persons with disabilities through the implementation of this policy.
3.3 Alectra will use reasonable efforts in meeting the needs of persons with disabilities in a timely manner promoting a culture of respect and consideration.
3.4 To ensure Alectra is in compliance with AODA, 2005 we commit to ensuring compliance with IASR standards through the development of policies, procedures and work instructions.
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4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS (Applicable to all Alectra IASR Procedures)
4.1 Alectra will establish, implement, maintain and document a multi-year accessibility plan outlining its strategy to prevent and remove barriers and meet its requirements under the IASR, emphasizing our commitment to accessibility, respect, and employee well-being. Annual status reports will be prepared that will report on the progress of the steps taken to implement Alectra’s accessibility plan. Accessibility plans will be made available in an accessible format, upon request.
4.2 Alectra will incorporate accessibility criteria and features when procuring or acquiring goods, services or when renovating/upgrading and building facilities. The only exception is in cases where it is impracticable to do so.
4.3 Alectra will incorporate accessibility features when designing, procuring or acquiring self-service kiosks.
4.4 Accessibility Training
Training will be provided to each person according to their needs and duties, and as soon as it is practicable after the person is assigned the applicable duties. Training will be provided as part of the orientation training package for new employees and on an ongoing basis in connection with changes to policies, procedures and practices governing the provision of goods or services to persons with disabilities.
All training curriculum will be designed to ensure all participants are aware of and understand all IASR Standards and their related duties.
Alectra will maintain records on the training provided, when it was provided and the number of employees that were trained.
4.5 All documents will be made publicly available and, on request, they will be provided in an accessible format.
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6. IASR RELATED PROCEDURES AND WORK INSTRUCTIONS
6.1 Customer Service Standards Procedure (CORP-PRO-016A)
6.2 Design of Public Spaces Standards Procedure (CORP-PRO-016B)
6.3 Employment Standards Procedure (CORP-PRO-016C)
6.4 Information and Communications Standards Procedure (CORP-PRO-016D)
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7. RELATED DOCUMENTS
7.1 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
7.2 Integrated Accessibility Standards (Ontario Regulation 191/11)
7.3 Alectra Utilities Multi-Year Accessibility Plan