Image Description: Accessibility standards book on a desk with the image of a body in a wheelchair on yellow puzzle piece.
The Provincial and Municipal Legislation Standards
At EMBRACE 2 Learn Inc., we are committed to helping organizations navigate and implement accessibility legislation across Canada. We provide expert guidance on compliance, best practices, and strategic planning to create inclusive environments that meet both legal requirements and community needs.
Canada’s approach to accessibility is shaped by a growing number of provincial legislations, each designed to remove barriers and promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Understanding the differences and requirements across jurisdictions is essential for organizations committed to fostering truly inclusive environments. Explore the table below for a snapshot of the provincial accessibility laws we support.
Province
Name of Legislation
Standards Overview
British Columbia
Accessible British Columbia Act, 2021
Organizations must establish an accessibility committee, develop an accessibility plan updated every three years, and implement a process for public feedback. Standards focus on employment, service delivery, built environment, information and communications, transportation, health, education, and procurement.
Manitoba
Accessibility for Manitobans Act, 2013
The Act addresses five key areas: customer service, employment, information and communication, transportation, and design of public spaces. Each standard is implemented through regulations with specific requirements and deadlines for organizations.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick Accessibility Act, 2024
The Act aims to prevent and remove barriers affecting persons with disabilities, with standards implemented in areas such as customer service, information and communication, transportation, employment, and design of public spaces. Organizations are required to comply with new requirements and deadlines as standards are introduced.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador Accessibility Act, 2021
The Act establishes an Accessibility Standards Advisory Board and requires public bodies to prepare accessibility plans every three years. Standards aim to identify, remove, and prevent barriers, with enforcement mechanisms in place.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Accessibility Act, 2017
The Act aims to make Nova Scotia inclusive and barrier-free by 2030, focusing on areas such as goods and services, information and communication, transportation, employment, built environment, and education. An Accessibility Directorate and Advisory Board support the development and implementation of standards.
Quebec
Quebec Act to Secure Handicapped Persons in the Exercise of Their Rights, 2004
The Act ensures equal opportunities for people with disabilities by mandating accessibility standards in transportation, buildings and spaces, communication, and employment. It requires public and private organizations to remove barriers and provide accommodations for inclusion.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Accessibility Act, 2023
The Act focuses on preventing and removing accessibility barriers in buildings and spaces, information and communications, employment, transportation, procurement, service animals, and services and activities. It establishes an Accessibility Advisory Committee and requires the development of accessibility standards.
Accessibility promotes a more inclusive society where individuals with disabilities are treated with respect and dignity and have equal opportunities to participate.
We Help You Ensure Compliance
Whether you are operating in a single province or across multiple regions, staying informed about current accessibility laws is critical to compliance and organizational success. EMBRACE 2 Learn Inc. is here to guide you through the integration of the standards, updates, and best practices that will keep your organization ahead in accessibility leadership
Image Description: Titled Accessibility Guidelines with 5 images to represent inclusion, design, compliance, and disabilities.
Our team offers the expertise and personalized support your organization needs to meet evolving accessibility standards confidently and efficiently. We partner with you to ensure your initiatives are not only compliant; but lead the way in accessible excellence.
Let’s Foster a More Accessible and Equitable Canada
Book a free discovery call today and find out how we share our expertise and personalized support to help meet evolving accessibility standards confidently and efficiently!
Policy to Practice. Practice to Compliance.