Manitoba Accessibility Standard For Customer Service Comes Into Effect Nov 1
October 22, 2018A reminder that Manitoba’s Accessibly Standard for Customer Service becomes a legal requirement for all Manitoba businesses as of November 1, 2018.
The Customer Service standard outlines ways to ensure all organizations create an accessible and welcoming service environment for those with disabilities. The standard identifies how small adjustments can help ensure greater accessibly, and addresses areas including accommodating communication, supporting assistive devices and the presence of service animals.
The standard does not require organizations to make renovations, but to ensure accessibility features already in place are used as intended. It can be as easy as asking, “How can I help?” One in six Manitobans face barriers related to accessibility.
Training Materials & Information:
There are many user-friendly tools at this link: Accessibility Standard Training Resources to help organizations comply with the customer service standard, including a handbook, sample policies, tips for employees, frequently asked questions, self-assessment checklist and information about training sessions. The website also lists workshops to support policy development and staff training.
RCC also conducted webinars on the Standard featuring John Wyndels from Manitoba’s Disabilities Issues Office. We would also be happy to provide you with the PPT deck if it’s helpful for any training you will be providing.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact John Graham, Director, Government Relations (Prairie Region) at jgraham@retailcouncil.org or 204-926-8624
