Accessibility Plan

University of Ottawa 2006 - 2007

University of Ottawa 2005 - 2006

1. Executive Summary And Priorities for 2005 - 2006

The Ontarians With Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA)

The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) received Royal Assent on December 14, 2001. The purpose of the ODA is to improve opportunities for people with disabilities through identification, removal and prevention of barriers to participation in the life of the province. The full text of the ODA is available at: Government of Ontario, Ministry of Community and Social Services

The Council of Ontario Universities Working Group on the Ontarians with Disabilities Act identified 7 priority areas to be addressed. Working groups were created by experts in each of the seven areas. Ten (10) accessibility reports were presented to the Accessibility Program Coordinator who compiled and prepared the Accessibility Plan 2005.

This year’s plan includes a status report on 17 initiatives that were completed prior the 2004-2005 reporting year, 67 continuing initiatives that carried on through the 2005-2006 period, and 26 new initiatives designed to eliminate barriers identified in 2004-2005. As in the previous year, no additional funding was provided by the provincial government for the implementation of these new initiatives. Costs were therefore assumed by each administrative unit.

The Accessibility Committees continue to meet 3 times a year to review needs, identify specific adaptive measures, monitor the unfolding of activities and the progress in the attainment of set goals, and to oversee the development of future accessibility plans.

Priorities For 2005 - 2006

Since submitting the first report in September 2003, a great number of initiatives put in place have contributed significantly to raising the level of accessibility throughout the University of Ottawa’s campus. While preparing this third report, consultations of the Accessibility Committees and the broader Advisory Committee on Accessibility were held for the purpose of identifying priority initiatives for the year ahead. These initiatives not only require a comprehensive action plan but additional funding.

List of Priorities for 2005 - 2006

Barriers: Tabaret Hall:

• Building partially accessible.
• Some sections of the building are not accessible.
• The elevator is very small.
• Need for an elevator.
• (C1.21 and F1.5)

Recommendations

• An evaluation report and work schedule will be developed before the end of   2005-2006 keeping in mind current plans for the construction of the new multidisciplinary building.

Barriers: Hagen Hall

• Building partially accessible
• Need for an elevator.
• (C1.21 and F2.2)

Recommendations

• An evaluation report and work schedule will be developed before the end of   2005-2006 keeping in mind current plans for the construction of the new multidisciplinary building.

Barriers: Academic Hall

• Building inaccessible.
• Need for an elevator.
• (C1.21)

Recommendations

• An evaluation report and work schedule will be developed before the end of   2005-2006 keeping in mind current plans for the construction of the new multidisciplinary building.

Barriers: 100 Laurier

• Building inaccessible
• Need for an elevator and a ramp.
• (C1.21)

Recommendations

• An evaluation report and work schedule will be developed before the end of   2005-2006 keeping in mind current plans for the construction of the new multidisciplinary building.

Barriers: University Centre and Morisset Library

• No legal access from the west side (Residential Complex and the pedestrian pathway).
• Need for a ramp that gives access to the main library entrance and to the first floor of the University Centre (Financial Aid Office and the Cafeteria).
• (C1.21 and A2.6)

Recommendations

• An evaluation report and work schedule will be developed before the end of   2005-2006 keeping in mind current plans for the construction of the new multidisciplinary building.

Barriers: Awareness about how to support students with a disability, and adapting instructional design principles into teaching is inconsistent among faculty members. (E1.2)

Recommendations

• The implementation of new instructional design principles will have an impact in making learning more accessible to all students; reducing the negative impact on faculty members with disabilities in the performance of their instructional duties; and building on good practices at uO in the growing field of universal instructional design.
• SASS and TLSS will examine the possibility to create a pilot project with a group of professors who will apply instructional design principles to their teaching. Technical and pedagogical support will be provided to the pilot group.

Barriers: People with disabilities face a range of physical and attitudinal barriers including stereotyping and prejudice. Inadequate resources and the lack of common objectives with regards to accessibility and equity seriously curb efforts to remove barriers. (E1.1)

Recommendations

The establishment of an Accessibility Resource Coordinator position that would promote the sharing of initiatives and develop a culture of accessibility and inclusion.

This person would be involved in …

• the preparation of the Accessibility Plan in respect of the Ontarian with Disability Act, 2001 and the new Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005;
  
• Setting up a working group with representation from the Equity Sector, Occupational Health, Disability and Leave Sector, the Office of Risk Management, Environmental Health and Safety, and Access Service to determine needs and provide accommodations to employees with a disability (D1.3);
  
• the management of a special fund for the accommodation of all on-campus non-academic activities (E1.6);
  
• the updating of the Policy Statement on Access to and Equity in Education for students with disabilities (E1.7);
  
• the development of an accessibility portal at the uO (E1.8);
  
• providing support to the Accessibility Advisory Committee and working in close collaboration (E1.4);
  
• the Advisory Committee on Employment Equity (D1.3);
  
• the development of partnerships for the promotion of accessibility and equity at the uO (D1.4 and E1.5);

The Accessibility Resource Coordinator would act as an expert resource in the development of standard practice in all future policy development and in the reviews of current policy in respect of accessibility and equity (E1.2, E1.9, and E1.10).

2. Introduction

“People with disabilities represent a significant and growing part of our population. According to Statistics Canada, about 1.5 million Ontarians have a disability which corresponds to approximately 13.5% of the population. It is estimated that by 2020, approximately 20% of Ontario’s population will have a disability.”

The University of Ottawa’s commitment to Accessibility

The University of Ottawa has always done its utmost to meet the needs of students with disabilities. For instance, in 1985, the Student Affairs Directorate, through a personalized approach, worked to accommodate about thirty students with disabilities by offering support services or by acting as an intermediary between them and their faculty. In 1988, the Senate of the University adopted a policy on persons with disabilities; this helped formalize the campus-wide structure that the University needed to meet the obligations set by the Human Rights Code of Ontario. With the creation of the Centre for Special Service (now Access Service) in 1990, the University broadened the range of services on campus for an ever-increasing number of persons requiring assistance. In addition, two faculties, Law and Education, have adopted special measures to encourage the admission and retention of students with disabilities. Furthermore, as part of its policy statement on access to and equity in education for students with disabilities, the University of Ottawa established the Employment and Education Equity Program in 1989. As it evolved, this program spawned the Advisory Committee on Equity in Education in 1991.

In 1994, the first accessibility committee was created to make recommendations and respond to the need to improve accessibility at the University of Ottawa. The committee consisted of students and staff representing the following units: Access Service, the Employment and Education Equity Office, Physical Resources Service and the Office of the Registrar. Today, this committee is managing an annual fund of $80 000 to improve physical accessibility at the University of Ottawa.

As provided by the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001, the mandate of the accessibility working groups is to facilitate the coordination, implementation and monitoring of accessibility initiatives at the University of Ottawa. The support provided to these working groups by the University’s high management helps achieve this goal.

This report truly challenges us all.  Let it be known, however, that the active participation of members from all areas of the university community in support of this major project has clearly strengthened the University’s commitment to creating and maintaining a learning environment that is open to all. 

3. Definitions

Disability
(a) 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,

(b) a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability,

(c) a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language,

(d) a mental disorder, or

(e) an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.

Barrier
Barrier means anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in all aspects of society because of his or her disability, including a physical barrier, an architectural barrier, an information or communications barrier, an attitudinal barrier, a technological barrier, a policy or a practice.

Initiative
Any removal process for barriers that were identified and removed before 2005

New initiative
Any removal process initiated in 2004-2005 and being reported for the first time in the Accessibility Plan

Continuing initiative
Any ongoing barrier removal process started in the 2004-2005 reporting year (or prior), and will continue into the 2005-2006 reporting year

Work-in-progress
A barrier removal process that is still in progress, but has a definitive end date (e.g. a physical renovation)

Ongoing
A barrier removal process that is continuous or cyclical with no definitive end date (e.g. annual review of policies)

4. Accessibility Working Groups

Working groups who participated in the elaboration of this plan
* team leader

Publication and information resources

Computing and Communication Services (CCS): Jacqueline Oliver*, Team Leader, Web accessibility
Computing and Communication Services: Pascal Laliberté
Teaching and Learning Support Service (TLSS): Steve Rokeby
Teaching and Learning Support Service: Pascal Wickert
Student Academic Success Service: Alain Brisard
Library Network: Halina de Maurivez*, Team Leader, Library Network
Library Network: Cynthia Bail, Isabelle Séguin, Guy Lalonde, Mary Regimbald
Student Academic Success Service: Ryan Klomp

Equipment and adaptive technologies

Student Academic Success Service: Ryan Klomp
Teaching and Learning Support Service: Richard Pinet*, Team Leader, TLSS
Professor (Common Law): Bradford Morse
Library Network: Cameron Metcalf
Faculty of Medicine: Patricia O’Brien
Teaching and Learning Support Service: Alain Erdmer
Association of Students with Special Needs: Anthony Tibbs
Teaching and Learning Support Service: Mark Gareau

Physical facilities

Physical Resources: Maguy Eustache*, Team Leader, Physical Resources
Student Academic Success Service: Marie-Claude Rouleau
Student Academic Success Service: Yolaine Ruel
Physical Resources: Raymond Michon
Office of the Registrar: Pauline Bélanger

Human Resources issues

Human Resources: Rosanna Carreon*
Human Resources: Rita Gero
Student Academic Success Service: Yolaine Ruel

Awareness issues for faculties and staff

Student Academic Success Service: Yolaine Ruel
Human Resources: Rosanna Carreon
Human Resources: Rita Gero
ComNet
Centre for University Teaching
Student Academic Success Services (SASS)
Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO)
Association for the Special Needs (ASN)

Academic services and policies for students with disabilities

Office of the Registrar: Arlette Henry
Office of the Registrar: Pauline Bélanger
Office of the Registrar: Francine Belisle
Human Resources: Rosanna Carreon
InfoService: Bruno Castilloux
Faculty of Arts: Gissane Frigon
Graduate and Post Doctoral Studies: Nicole Lanthier
Department of Geography: Sylvie Letang
Faculty of Medicine: Normand Séguin
Department of Music: Linda Bergeron
MBA Program: Diane Sarazin
Financial Aid and Awards Service: Diane Pelletier
Common Law Section: Joanne Chartrand
Office of the Registrar: Michèle Dextras
Facutly of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (FGPS): Margaret Moriarty

Non-academic student support services

Community Life: Pierre Brault
Community Life: Nicole Blais
Protection Service: Nathalie Jacob
Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO)
Association of the Special Needs (ASN)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

Faculty of Medicine: Valerie Beck, Co-president
Student: Richard Ruest, Co-president
Kinda Aljassem
Pierre Brault
Magda Costea
Columbia Delano Washington
Christina De Simone
Aline Germain-Rutherford
Angie Mackinnon
Elizabeth Shannon
Bradley Sim

5. Proposed Work Plan for 2005 - 2006

October 18: Public presentation of the Accessibility Plan to the University community.

November 1st, 2005: Plenary meeting with all working teams involved in the development of this plan and in the determination of the direction and actions to be taken for the year 2006-2007.

February 1st, 2006: Plenary meeting of the accessibility working teams.

May 2nd 2006: Presentation and compilation of the reports of the accessibility working teams.

Spring 2006: Presentation of the first draft of the 2006-2007 Accessibility Plan to the Advisory Committee for comments and recommendations.

September 2006: Presentation of the 2006-2007 Accessibility Plan to the University of Ottawa Administration Committee for approval.

September 30th, 2006: Public posting of the 2006-2007 Accessibility Plan.

6. Report on 2004 -2005 Initiatives By Area

A. Publication and information resources

Focus: Access to information involves matters relating to format and availability of content, including the means of access and technologies associated with it. While access to publications and information is usually the responsibility of the university's library, there are also related responsibilities in all departments and units that produce publications and web sites, such as promotions, marketing and communications.

A1 Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.1 Lack of tools to identify scope of accessibility barriers pertaining to the University of Ottawa’s website

Continuing initiatives:

1. Purchased license for LIFT Machine website accessibility software and assigned support staff to implement ongoing university-wide reports
2. Since January 2005, started generating monthly reports to University webmasters to track the progress of website accessibility and identify barriers

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Computing and Communications Services

Barrier A1.2 Lack of website accessibility standards for the University’s websites

Initiatives:

• The Web Accessibility Committee developed Accessibility Guidelines
• English and French versions of the web accessibility guidelines are available online.

Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.3 Lack of awareness among the University’s webmasters regarding website accessibility barriers

New initiative:

• The Web Accessibility Committee organized professional training sessions for the webmasters

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative:The web accessibility committee provides periodic information sessions during webmaster meetings
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

All focuses are from the following document: COU Working Group on the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, “The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001: Guidelines for the University Sector,” Council of Ontario Universities, 2002.

Barrier A1.4 Information overload and conflicting recommendations for website accessibility standards

Initiatives:

• The Web Accessibility Committee reviewed a wide range of materials and identified key tools and resources appropriate for the institution
• Barriers were removed through implementation of the website accessibility guidelines and the generation of reports identifying accessibility barriers

Timeline : Done
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.5 Lack of a method to obtain user feedback on accessibility

Continuing initiatives:

• The Web Accessibility Committee has established an online survey for users with a disability to provide feedback on web accessibility
• The accessibility feedback form allows the Web Accessibility Committee to review user comments and recommendations and implement corrective actions where appropriate

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.6 Provide better support for individuals with a disability

New initiative:The Web Accessibility Committee established a separate and more usable search page and created a web-tips page to improve usability
Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: Increase the visibility of these tools
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.7 Not all applications within InfoWeb (namely Registration Navigator, Degree Navigator, Co-op Navigator, Work Study Navigator, Docu-Net and AlumBoutique) are accessible

Continuing initiatives:

• Distribution of letter to key stakeholders recommending corrective actions or changes to procedures or purchasing criteria (recommendations that business owners include accessibility as part of their future RFPs)
• It is not anticipated that this barrier will be removed in the foreseeable future, as there is a certain amount of dependency on third-party software vendors that prevents removal of this barrier in the short term
• Statements providing direction where persons with a disability can get assistance should be provided in all applications that may present barriers

Timeline: Work-in-progress (limited human resources to recode other inaccessible applications)
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.8 Lack of a centralized repository of common coding techniques to accelerate the application of accessibility fixes

New initiative: Barrier removed through the creation of the Web Accessibility Zone, where shortcuts and tips are documented
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.9 Orbis, the millennium catalogue was not accessible

New initiative: The coding was changed by the Library staff
Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: The Library’s sub-committee on services for persons with special needs will be following up on the recommendation that future purchases consider accessibility
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Library

Barrier A1.10 Accessibility of the central code for the University of Ottawa’s banner for faculty and services

New initiative: Banners were recoded.
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Computing and Communications Services

Barrier A1.11 Inaccessible PDF documents and forms

New initiative: The PDF Accessibility Workgroup was created to identify problems and provide recommendations for PDF documents and forms
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.12 DocDepot and Career Navigator

Continuing initiative:Barrier identified within DocDepot and Career Navigator. The Web Accessibility Executive will contact the School of Management to develop a plan for its removal
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee and the School of Management

Barrier A1.13 Accessibility of HTML forms

Continuing initiative: Provide specific instructions to webmasters on how to best create HTML forms
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

Barrier A1.14 Accessibility of HRXpert

Continuing initiative: It is unlikely that this site will be made accessible given that a replacement tool is expected
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee and Human Resources Service

Barrier A1.15 Accessibility of the template for the University of Ottawa website

Continuing initiative: Recode and deploy coding changes to enhance accessibility
Timeline: Work-in-progress (limited human resources to plan and deploy coding changes)
Responsibility: Computing and Communications Services

Barrier A1.16 Lack of a central area for website accessibility aimed at users

Continuing initiative: Currently planning to provide a link at the bottom of all web pages with an accessibility statement and a site containing tips on how to use the website
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Web Accessibility Committee

A2 Library Network

Barrier A2.1 Need to improve communication on accessibility for individuals with a disability

Initiative: A barrier identification survey was conducted in 2003 by a temporary accessibility working group within the Library Network to help identify

• all categories of barriers
• recommended solutions
• Identified barrier removal status into short/mid/long-term categories

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: A new committee that will focus on services for persons with a disability has been created within the Library Network
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Library Network

Barrier A2.2 Access Service and Library Network policies are not always coordinated

Continuing initiatives:

• Access Service and the Library Network created and implemented an ongoing Library Card Agreement to identify users of adaptive technology and provide enhanced services
• Access Service trains students on how to use adaptive software

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Library Network and Access Service

Barrier A2.3 Students with a visual disability had difficulty accessing the RELMON printer stations

Initiative: A printer was installed in MRT 116 and Brian Dickson library
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Library Network

Barrier A2.4 Lack of awareness regarding library services for students with a disability

New initiative: Access Service transcribed the library brochure into alternative formats
Timeline: Done
Continuing initiatives:

• Access Service staff distributes the Library Services for Persons with Disabilities brochure to each registered student.
• Access Service provides a link from their web page to the Library’s web page about services available to students with a disability

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: The Library Network and Access Service

Barrier A2.5 The Library Network computer and electronic systems presented usability difficulties for students with a disability

Initiatives:

• Installed Microsoft Word in the library lab for students with disabilities (MRT 115/116)
• Installed Internet Explorer in the library lab (MRT 115/116)
• Installed laser printers in the library lab (MRT 115/116)
• Updated the Kurzweil 1000 and the Kurzweil 3000 software in the library lab (MRT 115/116)
• CCTV and height adjustable tables available in MRT, the Health Sciences and Brian Dickson libraries
• Reviewed online library catalogue to ensure accessibility and made necessary modifications

Timeline: Done

New initiatives:

• JAWS and ZoomText upgraded in MRT and installed at the Law Library
• Dragon Naturally Speaking , Aurora and Texthelp installed at the Law Library
• MS Office Suite installed in MRT and Law libraries
• Systems staff monitor software and hardware regularly
• Accessible printers are available at MRT and FTX reference counters
• A closed-captioned television is now available at MRT
• The audible signal in MRT was removed due to the noise level in the library. As an accommodation, staffs now retrieve books for students.

Timeline: Done

Continuing Initiatives:

• Kurzweil 3000 and Kurzweil 1000 installed in the Law Library and to be upgraded in the MRT library lab (MRT 115/116) in 2005 - 2006
• There is the need to develop the capacity to reserve the MRT library lab (MRT 115/116) but the computer system does not have this functionality.

Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Library Network

Barrier A2.6 Morisset Library: In need of a ramp that would give access to the main entrance from the west side (the Residential Complex and the pedestrian pathway)

Continuing initiatives:

• Assessment in progress
• The removal of this barrier will be part of the Information Commons and the University Centre upgrade project

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources

Barrier A2.7 Physical facilities and signage presented barriers to students with a disability

New initiatives:

• Improved signage in the MRT library
• Adaptive technology, document retrieval and accessible washrooms are available on the first floor of MRT
• Standing signage was relocated and some hanging signs were lowered
• Accessible washrooms are available on the main floor of the Law Library
• An accessible table is available in the photocopy room of the Law Library
• Lever door handle installed to improve accessibility to the Reserve Service
• Install an electronic door for the entrance to the Brian Dickson Library to improve accessibility
• Consultations held with a student from the ASN and Access Service to help improve accessibility to the library catalogue for users with a visual impairment. Testing is ongoing.

Timeline: Done

Continuing initiatives:

• The improvement of emergency evacuation procedures for deaf students is in progress
• Need to install stroboscopic lights but is difficult to locate appropriate areas due to the vastness of the library
• Library staff will help with photocopying, if needed.
• Library personnel retrieve books upon request. If the book return slot is problematic, books can be returned to Reserve Desk
• Authentication instructions a re available in Braille
• Electronic tables for microfilm readers will be purchased within the next two years
• Due to the security system in place, it is not feasible to change security bars at the entrance and exit. Need to investigate other products

Timeline : Ongoing

Responsibility: Library Network

Barrier A2.8 In conjunction with the mandate of the Council on Access to Information, there is a need to encourage the acquisition of printed materials from publishers who provide and support electronic text editions for individuals who are unable to use a print medium

Continuing initiatives:

• The Library Network is purchasing collections of electronic books through NetLibrary
• More e-journals are available through the Library Network’s webpage
• The Library can purchase a duplicate copy in an alternative format, as needed, if feasible
• The Library is to establish criteria with vendors and publishers when feasible

Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: The Library Network

Barrier A2.9 Need to increase awareness about accessibility and training for library staff members

Continuing initiatives:

• Provide awareness information sessions on accessibility for library staff members
• Staff members are to receive training on a yearly basis
• Training for the JAWS and Kurzweil programs will be offered in 2005

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: The Library Network

B. Equipment and adaptive technologies   

Focus: Adaptive technology can assist people with disabilities in numerous ways. Screen readers and text magnification software for visual impairments; voice recognition for visual, learning, and physical disabilities; mind mapping/organizational support software for people with learning disabilities; equipment such as automatic desks for individuals with physical disabilities; and FM systems for individuals who are hard of hearing are a few ways universities can accommodate individuals with disabilities. Adaptive technology is used throughout the university.

B1 Teaching and Learning Support Services - Multimedia Distribution – Centre for E-Learning - Centre for Mediated Teaching and Learning 

Barrier B1.1 Classroom layout and design presents barriers to individuals with a disability

Initiatives:

• Reprogrammed classroom control panels for increased accessibility
• Provided assistive listening devices to students
• Deployed closed-captioning systems in classrooms and multimedia distribution services

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: There is an ongoing project aimed at redesigning fully accessible podiums in classroom locations across campus
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Multimedia Distribution

Barrier B1.2 Certain course design and content management software employed by the University has the potential to present barriers to individuals with a disability 

Continuing initiatives:

• Provide accessibility training and awareness to course developers and professors
• Integrate Web-CT accessibility policies into the course development process
• Continue to monitor and upgrade accessibility policies to ensure the prevention of accessibility barriers

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Centre for e-Learning

Barrier B1.3 Need to increase compliance with accessible web design standards

Continuing initiatives:

• Provided accessibility training and awareness to course developers and professors
• Adopt web accessibility guidelines
• Perform user-testing during the design process
• Continue staff training and issue awareness
• Provide workshop on best web accessibility design

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Centre for e-Learning

Barrier B1.4 Need to provide greater awareness and access to adaptive technologies integrated into lab facilities

New initiative: Purchased adaptive technologies to support users with a visual disability (ZoomText)
Timeline: Done

Continuing initiatives:

• Continue to support the deployment of adaptive technology at the University of Ottawa’s labs
• Consult with students and users on the appropriate adaptive technology resources to deploy
• Continue University of Ottawa staff training on adaptive technologies
• Provides workshops on adaptive technologies to the university community

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Access Service

Barrier B1.5 Need to provide greater awareness and access to adaptive technologies integrated into lab facilities

Continuing initiatives:

• Creation of an online e-learning accessibility resource that outlines accessibility design principles for professors and courseware designers to improve accessibility
• Integrate accessible design principles into faculty training and development to better support users of adaptive technology

Timeline: Work-in-progress - to be completed for winter 2006
Responsibility: Centre for e-Learning

B2 Access Service (SASS)

Barrier B2.1 The University of Ottawa requires a campus-wide integration of adaptive technologies to ensure that students with a disability have access to campus-based adaptive technologies

Continuing initiatives:

• Consultation with key stakeholders regarding the nature and scope of the problem
• Identify key adaptive technologies required on campus and secure required resources

Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Access Service, TLSS, CCS

C. Physical facilities

Focus: In striving to ensure access to physical facilities, the objective is to create a campus and facility environment that is free of barriers. Access and use of institutional facilities typically involves matters relating to removal of exterior and interior barriers, signage, and building access and transportation services.

C1 Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.1 120 University : Inaccessible entrance

Initiative: Temporary ramp built (fall 2004)
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.2 Tabaret Hall: No wheelchair-accessible counter at Social Sciences secretariat

Initiative: New adapted reception counter installed (summer 2004)
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.3 1 Stewart: Entrance inaccessible, no accessible washrooms

Initiatives:

• Ramp and power door installed
• Accessible washroom built

Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.4 Marion Hall: No access to the auditorium

Initiative: Ramp built
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.5 Simard Hall: Lack of wheelchair-accessible space

Initiatives:

• Rooms 219 and 221: Classrooms redesigned
• Accessible space added for individuals with a disability
• SMD 332-333: Computer lab redesigned to create space for individuals using a wheelchair

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: Upgrading entrance from Waller Street for more accessibility
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.6 Stanton Residence: Various barriers

Initiative: Accessible showers, power door, and accessible toilet and sink installed
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Housing Service, Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.7 University Centre: Various barriers

Initiative: New adapted reception counter installed in the Financial Aid Office
Continuing initiative: Upgrading entrance for more accessibility
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Financial Aid Office, Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.8 141 Louis-Pasteur: No wheelchair-accessible counter

New initiative: New counter designed to allow access for visitors using a wheelchair
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.9 Campus: Campus signage is not always accessible

New initiatives:

• Tactile signage for washroom installed
• Campus-wide signs upgraded
• More signage identifying accessible paths on campus installed

Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.10 Campus: Inaccessible classroom podiums

Continuing initiative: Redesigning podiums to be wheelchair accessible
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: TLSS, Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.11 Campus: Need for washroom renovation

Continuing initiative: Accessible sinks and counters installed
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.12 Morisset Hall: Various barriers

New initiatives:

• New adapted reception counter installed
• Accessible washroom built
• Rooms 05, 05a, 05b have been redesigned, allowing a multimedia podium classroom with accessible space for wheelchairs

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: A wheelchair accessible space will be designed for the CHUO student radio station
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.13 Campus: Not all classrooms are accessible

Continuing initiative: Upgrading classroom furniture for more accessibility
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.14 Campus: Need for power door for physical accessibility

Continuing initiative: Installation of power doors upon request and traffic demands
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.15 Vanier Hall: Various barriers

Continuing initiative: Major renovation planned for 2007
Timeline: 2007
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service
Barrier C1.16 Fauteux Hall: Various barriers

New initiatives:

• Lift installed in one washroom
• Steps identified with yellow stripes
• Visual alarm installed in the library
• Room 402 renovated to be wheelchair accessible

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: Student Lounge inaccessible (split level), leveling of the student lounge planned for 2005
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.17 Campus: Various barriers

Continuing Initiative: Upgrading washrooms with the objective of having at least one accessible washroom per building, ideally per floor
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.18 CBY Hall: Inaccessible entrance

New initiative: Entrance upgraded for more accessibility
Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.19 Campus: Inadequate ramps

New initiatives:

• Café Nostalgica ramp renovated
• Vanier Hall at Marie-Curie entrance ramp renovated

Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.20 Lamoureux Hall : Need to improve accessibility

Continuing initiatives:

• Renovation will be done
• Accessible reception counter will be installed

Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.21 Inaccessible buildings considered to be high priority

Continuing initiatives:

• Hagen Hall: Building inaccessible. Need for an elevator. No funds available for the required renovations.
• Academic Hall : Building inaccessible. Need for an elevator. No funds available for the required renovations.
• Tabaret Hall: Building partially accessible. Some sections of the building are not accessible. The elevator is very small. Need for an elevator. No funds available for the required renovations.
• 100 Laurier : Building inaccessible. Need for an elevator and a ramp. No funds available for the required renovations.
• University Centre and Morisset Library: No legal access from the west side (Residential Complex and the pedestrian pathway). Need for a ramp that gives access to the main library entrance and to the first floor of the University Centre (Financial Aid Office and the Cafeteria). No funds available for the required renovations.
• University Centre: Need for a bigger elevator. No funds available for the required renovations.
• 585 King Edward: Building not accessible. Need for an elevator and a ramp. No funds available for the required renovations.
• 600 King Edward: Building not accessible. Need for an elevator and a ramp. No funds available for the required renovations.

Timeline: TBD as funding becomes available
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.22 Inaccessible buildings considered medium priority:

Continuing initiatives:

• Montpetit Hall: Half floor office inaccessible to wheelchair users. No funds available for the required renovations.
• Thompson Hall : Entrance by 35 University not accessible. No funds available for the required renovations.Timeline: TBD as funding becomes available

Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.23 Inaccessible buildings considered low priority

Continuing initiatives:

• 1 Stewart: Building inaccessible, need for a bigger elevator. No funds available for the required renovations.
• Leblanc Hall: No direct access for wheelchair users. No funds available for the required renovations.
• 30-32 Stewart : Buildings inaccessible. No funds available for the required renovations.
• 554-556 King Edward : Buildings inaccessible. No funds available for the required renovations.

Timeline: TBD as funding becomes available
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

Barrier C1.24 Need for a campus-wide vision of universal accessibility

Continuing initiatives:

• In crease consultation with a Universal Design Consultant to advise architects, planners and designers on how to incorporate universal design principles for all forms of construction, renovation or modification of physical installations. It may prevent the creation of new barriers in currently developing projects

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Physical Resources Service

C2 Student Academic Success Service (SASS)

Barrier C2.1 Access Service is located on a floor with no outside access in case of an emergency

Continuing initiatives:

• Different options are currently being considered
• This project is part of a major renovation plan that involves Morisset Library and the University Centre

Timeline: TBD
Responsibility: SASS,Physical Resources Service

Barrier C2.2 Absence of campus map in an accessible format for visually impaired or blind students

Continuing initiatives: The Transcription Unit of Access Service is developing a tactile map that will be available for fall 2005
Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: Access Service

Priority established by the number of people affected; security; function (academic, non-academic, administrative, recreational); integration into campus life (connected with other buildings) and heritage value.

Criteria identified jointly by the Physical Resources Service and the Access Service

D. Human resource issues

Focus: All Ontario universities are concerned with employment equity as demonstrated by their participation in the Federal Contractors Program, which requires them to make accommodations for the specific needs of employees with disabilities. As such, there are numerous HR policies that could be reviewed periodically for barriers, including recruitment and support services.

D1 Human Resources Service

Barrier D1.1 Need to update recruitment strategies to remove elements that could be considered discriminatory or prejudicial

Initiatives:

• Participated in presentations organized by the Conference Board of Canada which highlighted how hiring individuals with a disability makes good business sense
• Used information to implement new ideas and recruitment strategies

Timeline: Done

Continuing initiatives:

• Consult with non-profit community groups specializing in disability issues and employment
• Establish links with direct referrals of candidates from Line 1000, Horizon-Emploi, Caseway and C NIB
• Develop an Employment Alert to communicate with organizations representing the designated groups about job opportunities available to the public at the University of Ottawa
• Ensure visibility of and commitment to equity in the recruitment phase of staffing
• Create a new HR and Equity website that clearly conveys the University of Ottawa’s commitment to employment equity. Persons with a disability are encouraged to self-identify.
• Create a pool of applications from members of the designated groups in order to refer them first to non-advertised contract positions
• Create a temporary staffing agency called “Access uOttawa” that draws candidates from a pool of individuals belonging to the designated groups. L inks are made to provide ESL/FSL training to temporary pool members

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Human Resources Service

Barrier D1.2 Need to raise awareness and increase training opportunities for recruitment officers and supervisors on employment equity issues and legal obligations.

New initiative: A communication plan has been developed to promote the objectives of employment equity and its role on campus to directors, managers and employees
Timeline: Work in progress
Continuing initiative: Activities such as staffing and equity workshops for managers and awareness rising sessions for support staff, and communication with senior officials
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Human Resources Service

Barrier D1.3 Need to create an equity policy to promote the hiring and retention of all employees at the University of Ottawa. This policy must comply with the intent of the Ontario Human Rights Code and the University’s legal obligation to accommodate employees with a disability

Continuing initiatives:

• Comparative analysis of other Canadian and Ontario Universities’ equity policies
• Review of current HR policies
• Specific wording of policy to be determined with input from on-campus equity committees
• Set up an employment equity advisory committee to provide advice on policy development, systems review and other equity related issues
• Set up a working group with the participation of the Equity Sector, the Occupational Health, Disability and Leave Sector, the Office of the Risk Management, Environmental Health and
• Safety and the Access Service to determine and provide accommodation of employees (support staff and professors) with a disability

Timeline: Work in progress
Responsibility: Human Resources Service

Barrier D1.4 Need for an efficient system to better understand and communicate the needs and concerns of clients (professors, students, visitors) concerning accessibility of the work environment at the University of Ottawa

Continuing initiatives:

• Provide equity and awareness training workshops for staff on campus
• Act as a resource
• Improve business position by showing how diversity makes good business sense

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Human Resources Service

E. Awareness issues for faculty and staff

Focus: Both faculty and staff must be sensitive to attitudinal and/or pedagogical barriers if they are to identify, remove and prevent them. Universities may want to consider expanding or establishing programs to aid faculty and staff in this regard, for example, universal instructional design.

E1 Student Academic Success Service (SASS)

Barrier E1.1 People with disabilities face a range of physical and attitudinal barriers including stereotyping and prejudice

New initiative: The establishment of an Accessibility Resource Coordinator position that would promote the sharing of initiatives and develop a culture of accessibility and inclusion

This person would be involved in …

• the preparation of the Accessibility Plan in respect of the Ontarian with Disability Act, 2001 and the new Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005;
• setting up a working group with representation from the Equity Sector, Occupational Health, Disability and Leave Sector, the Office of Risk Management, Environmental Health and Safety, and Access Service to determine needs and provide accommodations to employees with a disability (D1.3);
• the management of a special fund for the accommodation of all on-campus non-academic activities (E1.6);
• the updating of the Policy Statement on Access to and Equity in Education for students with disabilities (E1.7);
• the development of an accessibility portal at the uO (E1.8);
• providing support to the Accessibility Advisory Committee and working in close collaboration (E1.4);
• the Advisory Committee on Employment Equity (D1.3);
• the development of partnerships for the promotion of accessibility and equity at the uO (D1.4 and E1.5);
• The Accessibility Resource Coordinator would act as an expert resource in the development of standard practice in all future policy development and in the reviews of current policy in respect of accessibility and equity (E1.2, E1.9, and E1.10).

Timeline: Winter 2006
Responsibility: Central administration, SASS

Continuing initiatives:

• Publish articles in the University of Ottawa newspapers
• Participate in the Awareness Week organized by the Association for the Special Needs and other organizations in the surrounding community
• Develop an awareness program for staff, professors and students to promote equity and accessibility for the entire university community

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: SASS, TLSS, Human Resources Service, SFUO, GSAED, APUO, APTPUO, AEUO

Barrier E1.2 Awareness about how to support students with a disability and adapting instructional design principles into teaching is inconsistent among faculty members

New initiative:

• Create a pilot program with a group of professors who will apply instructional design principles to their teaching. Technical and pedagogical support will be provided to the pilot group.

Timeline: Winter 2006

Continuing initiatives:

• Awareness campaign initiated with professors, InfoService and library staff for services available for students with a disability
• A request is sent to all professors asking to add a paragraph to their syllabuses informing students about Access Service. Pursue efforts with deans and department chairs to encourage the addition of the paragraph into the syllabus
• Access Service presents services offered to students with disabilities to the yearly Orientation

Training and Integration Program for new professors

- Creation of a website and a guideline for professors entitled Faculty guidelines for students with disabilities (fall 2005)

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: TLSS, SASS

Barrier E1.3Absence of an equity office at the University of Ottawa

Initiative: The Working Group on Ethics, Policies and Procedures, created in March 2003 at the request of the Central Administration Committee, recommended the creation of an Office of Institutional Fairness and Equity
Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: Project for the creation of a Student Advisory Office was presented to the Administration Committee under the initiatives of Vision 2010 is waiting for approval
Timeline: Winter 2006
Responsibility: Central Administration, SASS

Barrier E1.4 Need to develop and institutionalize an efficient system to better understand the needs and concerns of students, professors and staff with a disability

Continuing initiatives: An Advisory Committee was officially created in April 2005.

• Represents students, professors and staff with regards to accessibility and equity
• Reviews and comments on the University Accessibility Plan and provides recommendations to the Administrative Committee relative to the impact and pertinence of this plan on the university community
• Makes recommendations to improve the quality of university life for students with a disability
• Provide consulting services at the request of work teams on accessibility for the identification, removal and prevention of barriers

This committee should be officially part of a unit with a broader mandate, but no such unit exists yet at the University of Ottawa

Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: SASS

Barrier E1.5 Need to increase awareness and support for communication officers to ensure that all communication strategies used by the University will be accessible to all clients

Continuing initiative: A Guide to Planning Inclusive Meetings and Conferences has been developed and presented to the University of Ottawa Communications Network. The final version will be launched in September 2005. Potentially 120 communication officers will use the Guide for the organization of all non-academic activities on campus.

Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: SASS, Communication Service, All communication agents at uO

Barrier E1.6 Lack of financial support for the organization of inclusive events at the University of Ottawa

Continuing initiatives: A fund needs to be created to support all non-academic requests for accommodation at the University of Ottawa (Second Language Institute courses, University of Ottawa summer camps, conferences, workshops, meetings, Homecoming, special lectures, etc)
Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: SASS

Barrier E1.7 University policy governing students with a disability is outdated

Continuing initiatives: Revise and update the Policy Statement on Access to and Equity in Education for Students with Disabilities
Timeline: 2005-2006
Responsibility: SASS

Barrier E1.8 Need to increase visibility of accessibility initiatives

Continuing initiatives:

• Develop a University of Ottawa portal for accessibility resources
• The portal will be a reference point for students, faculty and staff on all University of Ottawa campuses

Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: SASS

Barrier E1.9 Need to clearly define accountability for planning capital expenditures related to the Accessibility Plan

Continuing initiatives:

• Incorporate the recommendations of the Accessibility Plan into the annual budgeting process of all University services and faculties
• Extra support from an equity office will help in carrying out this initiative

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Central Administration, SASS

Barrier E1.10 Need for a clear accountability structure for accessibility issues and for the implementation of the Accessibility Plan

Continuing initiatives:

• Formalize reporting mechanism and accountability structure with unit directors
• Consider identifying staff in each unit with formal responsibility for accessibility issues

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Central Administration, SASS

E2 SFUO – Accessibility Awareness Day

Barrier E2.1 More needs to be done in order to make the University of Ottawa completely accessible

Continuing initiatives: Each year, the SFUO organizes an Accessibility Day. The goals of this annual event are: - to raise awareness among members of the university community

• to address concerns regarding the accessibility of University of Ottawa facilities
• to see what, if anything, has changed since the previous Accessibility campaign

The report is presented to the Access Service as a tool for reviewing physical accessibility on campus

Timeline: Yearly event
Responsibility: SFUO

E2 SFUO – Accessibility Awareness Day

Barrier E2.1 More needs to be done in order to make the University of Ottawa completely accessible

Continuing initiatives: Each year, the SFUO organizes an Accessibility Day. The goals of this annual event are: - to raise awareness among members of the university community

• to address concerns regarding the accessibility of University of Ottawa facilities
• to see what, if anything, has changed since the previous Accessibility campaign

The report is presented to the Access Service as a tool for reviewing physical accessibility on campus

Timeline: Yearly event
Responsibility: SFUO

F. Academic services and policies for students with disabilities

Focus: All Ontario universities have policies outlining both the student’s and the institution’s responsibilities with respect to accommodation for students with disabilities. Polices may make reference to academic accommodation, transcription services, classroom instruction and exam accommodations.

F1 Enrollment Management: InfoService – Admission

Barrier F1.1 Need to revise undergraduate admission processes to comply with accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code to ensure accessibility for all students

New initiatives:

• Adopted a new admission process that was adapted to allow students who cannot physically wait in line to identify themselves
• An area is provided where they can sit during the waiting period
• Reviews of the Admission processes have been done

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiatives: Conduct a formal review of the policies, procedures and practices will be conducted at InfoService

Online OUAC application form:

• All program applications available online
• Admissions Office may provide personal help for those who need assistance

University of Ottawa application form (paper only):

• Admissions Office may provide personal help for someone who needs assistance
• University of Ottawa application forms will possibly be available online within the next two years

French test:

• Testing is held in an accessible area
• Accommodations are offered by Access Service, if needed

Translation test:

• Testing is held in an accessible area
• Accommodations are offered by Access Service, if needed

Visual Art interview and portfolio:

• Interview is held in an accessible area
• The portfolio could be presented in all formats

Music interview and audition:

• The interview and audition is held in an accessible area

Second language test:

• The Faculty of Education offers testing in an accessible area
• Accommodations are offered by Access Service, if needed

LSAT and GMAT tests:

• LSAT and GMAT provide applicants with their own procedure for students with disabilities
• LSAS (Law School Admissions Service) recommends exempting people with a visual impairment from taking the LSAT

Online application forms for financial aid and scholarship:

• Financial Aid Office may provide personal help for someone who needs assistance

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Office of the Registrar

Barrier F1.2 Need to develop an efficient system to better understand the needs and concerns of students with a disability

Continuing initiatives: To know more about existing barriers for students with disabilities, consultations will be organized:

• at InfoService (ongoing process)
• at registration: Tabaret 112, InfoService, Financial Aid Office, etc. (August – September 05)
• at faculties (August – September 05)
• during the school year by survey or focus group through Access Service (if needed)

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Office of the Registrar

Barrier F1.3 Need for training and awareness sessions for Enrolment Management staff to better understand the needs of individuals with a disability

New initiative: An information session was organized for all InfoService staff on accessibility and equity
Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative:

Follow-up sessions are organized on a regular basis to improve staff knowledge about special needs of students with disabilities

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Office of the Registrar

Barrier F1.4 Lack of visibility of and access to services available for students with a disability

New initiatives:

• InfoReply database was updated in March 2005 to include information related to Access Service and accommodations available for students with disabilities
• A link to Access Service was added

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative: InfoService includes a message to a closed-circuit television in the waiting room welcoming students with a disability to identify themselves to Access Service
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: InfoService

Barrier F1.5 Tabaret Hall: Difficult access

Continuing initiative: Developed and promoted procedures for students who cannot access InfoService for services such as payment of fees, ID cards, etc.
Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: InfoService

F2 Faculty of Graduate and Post-doctoral Studies

Barrier F2.1 Need to revise graduate admission processes to ensure accessibility for all students in compliance with accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code

New initiatives:

• The Betty software was installed to improve accessibility of the FGPS website. This program enables the JAWS program to read the website
• PDFlip , which allows the creation of an interface to PDF files, was tested
• The PDFlib software, which creates a PDF interface for forms so that users can fill out the required fields, save, send and print the file, was tested
• The new online PDF application form for OUAC that was launched in July 2005 is accessible
• All sites for admission tests are accessible

Timeline: Done
Continuing initiative:

Any students who have problems with the website, online grant applications, external grant applications or with the services offered by academic departments are invited to contact the Associate Registrar (or a representative)

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility : F aculty of Graduate and Post-doctoral Studies

Barrier F2.2 Hagen Hall: Building inaccessible (see Physical Resources section)

Continuing initiative: Until physical accessibility isexpanded beyondthe first floor, students are invited to communicate with the Associate registrar (or her delegate) for alternative solutions.
Time line: Ongoing
Responsibility : Faculty of Graduate and Post-doctoral Studies

F3 Professional Faculties

Barrier F3.1 Need to revise admission policies to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code

Initiatives: Under the recommendation of the Council of Ontario Faculties of Medicine (COFM), the University of Ottawa Medical School implemented the “Essential Skills and Abilities for the Study of Medicine” policy in August 2004

Time line: Done
New initiative: This policy isto be initiated with all professional faculties
Timeline: Work-in-progress
Responsibility: Professional faculties

G. Non-academic student support services

Focus: Like all students, students with disabilities have a range of non-academic needs. Some of these needs are met through services provided to all students and some are met through special accommodation. Universities may want to review needs in the areas of social events, residence facilities, food services, counselling services, and career and employment services.

G1 Campus Life

Barrier G1.1 Need for an association for students with a disability to increase the representation of disability issues on student life

Initiatives:

• The Association for the Special Needs (ASN) was created in spring 2003
• A location was provided on the third floor of the University Centre
• As a result of a student referendum held in 2004, the ASN receives annual funding for its operations from a student levy

Timeline: Done
Responsibility: Campus Life, SFUO

Barrier G1.2 Need to develop an efficient system to better understand the needs and concerns of students with a disability

Continuing initiatives:

• Issues dealing with accessibility are addressed by various committees where student representatives are prominently represented
• Make accessibility issues a regular part of agenda for existing working committees

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Campus Life

Barrier G1.3 Need for a revision of all non-academic policies and procedures to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code

Continuing initiatives:

• Initiation of a structured review in collaboration with the student government and the ASN
• Initiation of review is planned for the fall semester

Timeline: Fall 2005
Responsibility: Campus Life

Barrier G1.4 Lack of visibility of and accessibility to services for clients with a disability

New initiative: Some signage added

Continuing initiatives:

• Incremental improvements will be addressed as funding becomes available
• Plan to improve directional signage in the University Centre during summer 2005 is under consideration

Timeline: Ongoing
Responsibility: Campus Life

G2 Protection Services

Barrier G2.1 Need for understanding personal safety issues encountered on campus by students, staff and professors with disabilities

New initiatives:

• Study focusing on unreported crimes on campus and on better understanding groups at risk at the University
• Some questions of the survey will focus on students, support staff and professors with disabilities

Timeline: April 2006
Responsibility: Protection Services

Barrier G2.2 Need for better guidance for Protection Services staff and volunteers in order to better serve clients with disabilities

New initiative: Obtain proper training from SASS – Access Service
Timeline: April 2006
Responsibility: Protection Services and SASS