Accessibility
Accessibility is at the heart of universal design
Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification ™(RHFAC)
Creating inclusive spaces with accessible design
Detailed services
Accessibility Audit
An accessibility audit is a systematic evaluation that identifies areas where the building meets barrier free requirement standards as well as where it does not. Based on the audit findings, recommendations for upgrades are made to address accessibility issues.
Key services include:
- Site Audit: A physical assessment of the building to document current conditions, which may also include a review of existing as-built drawings.
- Accessibility Report: A detailed report is generated based on the audit findings, identifying areas of concern and compliance.
- Optional Follow-up: An optional follow-up service after one year is offered to provide additional guidance on implementing accessibility improvements and addressing inquiries related to the original report.
AODA Compliance
The AODA Standard for ‘Design of Public Spaces’ (DOPS) governs the accessibility of outdoor public spaces, barrier-free parking, and specific interior elements not covered by the Building Code, such as counters, queuing lines, and waiting areas. This service helps ensure compliance with both the Building Code and DOPS within the AODA legislation, focusing on exterior elements like:
- Recreational trails and beach access
- Outdoor public eating areas
- Outdoor play spaces
- Outdoor paths of travel
- Accessible parking
- Service-related elements
- Maintenance and restoration of public spaces
Key services offered include:
- Site Verification: Assessment of current interior elements and exterior elements of the site.
- AODA Compliance Report: A detailed report assessing DOPS-related design elements and recommendations to achieve compliance with AODA legislation.
The Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification and Consulting Services
The Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) is an internationally recognized rating system that evaluates the accessibility of existing and pre-construction sites. Public, Commercial, and Multi- Unit Residential Sites can be rated. The RHFAC rating survey assesses key areas of the built environment, including:
- Vehicular access
- Exterior approach and entrance
- Interior circulation
- Interior services and environment
- Sanitary facilities
- Wayfinding and signage
- Emergency systems
- Additional uses of space
- Residential units
- Trails and pathways
- Mind-friendly environments
- Technology and innovation
Key services offered include:
- Site Audit: An assessment of an existing building and site to gather data to complete the RHFAC rating survey.
- Pre Construction Design Review: Architectural Drawing Review to complete the RHFAC rating survey.
- RHFAC Registry Coordination: Submission of the survey to the RHFAC registry to determine whether a site has achieved certified or gold certified rating.
Accessibility Design Consulting Services
This service helps assess and improve accessibility in both existing and new buildings. As your accessibility consultant, we provide recommendations that exceed the minimum requirements in building codes, focusing on best practices to create inclusive spaces and eliminate barriers. The goal is to promote accessibility while maintaining design excellence.
Key services include:
- Drawing Reviews: Evaluating architectural floor plans during the design phase to address potential accessibility challenges.
- Accessibility Report: A detailed report assessing the barrier-free aspects of the design and its compliance with accessibility standards.
Our experts consult on standards like CSA B651:23, CSA B652:23, and Municipal Accessibility Design Guidelines.
Landmark projects
Meet our experts
Katerina Diseris,
RHFAC Professional
Ready to partner with us?
