Ontario Accessibility Audit
An Ontario accessibility audit can help an organization identify website barriers and understand its obligations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and related regulation. Ontario's current public guidance says applicable public websites must meet WCAG 2.0 Level AA requirements, subject to the stated exceptions and applicability rules.
Who has public website obligations?
Ontario's public guidance states that, as of January 1, 2021, designated public sector organizations and businesses or non-profits with 50 or more employees are required to make applicable public websites accessible. Organizations with fewer than 50 employees are encouraged to do so, although their website obligations differ.
What the audit should test
- WCAG 2.0 Level AA criteria within the applicable AODA scope.
- Keyboard navigation and focus.
- Headings, labels, landmarks and semantic structure.
- Text alternatives and accessible names.
- Contrast and visual presentation.
- Forms, errors and instructions.
- Responsive behaviour and zoom.
- Dynamic components and web applications.
Reporting and governance
The audit should be connected to the organization's accessibility program, remediation process and reporting obligations where applicable. Ontario states that accessibility compliance reporting is a legal obligation for organizations required to file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What WCAG level is referenced for applicable Ontario public websites?
Ontario guidance and regulation reference WCAG 2.0 Level AA, with specified exceptions in the regulation.
Do small businesses have the same website requirement?
Ontario states that businesses and non-profits with fewer than 50 employees are not required under the IASR to follow the website accessibility requirements, but are encouraged to make websites accessible.
When is the next accessibility compliance report deadline?
Ontario's current business guidance states that the deadline to file the accessibility compliance report is December 31, 2026 for organizations covered by that reporting cycle.
Need an accessibility assessment?
Discuss your website, web application, testing scope and reporting requirements with TechnoAccess.
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