The AMA affects all Manitobans – individuals confronting barriers every day, as well as those in a position to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility. The Government of Manitoba is working with representatives from the disability community, as well as public and private sector organizations to develop accessibility standards.
Accessibility standards are building blocks for making real, measurable and effective changes to accessibility. Each standard will outline specific requirements and timelines for organizations that have a responsibility to eliminate barriers.
Accessibility Standards focus on 5 key areas of daily living.
- The Customer Serviceaccessibility standard addresses business practices and training requirements to provide better customer service to people with disabilities. It is now law.
- The Employment accessibility standard will address practices related to employee recruitment, hiring and retention. It is under development.
- The Information and Communications accessibility standard will address barriers to accessing information – information provided in print, in person, on websites or in other formats. It is under development.
- The Built Environment accessibility standard will deal with access to those areas outside the jurisdiction of The Manitoba Building Code, such as sidewalks, pathways, parks and other aspects of the environment that we design and construct.
- The Transportation accessibility standard will apply to public transportation to address barriers Manitobans might encounter while getting to work or school, shopping, socializing and other aspects of daily life.