Accessibility Standards Canada (ASC) announced on Tuesday the release of the CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment standard. This equity-based standard on accessibility has been officially approved as a National Standard of Canada by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC).
This standard represents a significant step forward in promoting accessibility and fostering inclusion in workplaces across Canada. It provides organizations with practical guidance to proactively remove barriers in the workplace. It aims to enable people with disabilities to access more job opportunities, contribute fully to the economy, and thrive.
The standard addresses organizational policies, systems, and leadership. It focuses on key aspects of the entire employment lifecycle, including:
- recruitment,
- hiring,
- onboarding,
- retention,
- career development and promotion,
- performance management,
- redeployment,
- compensation; and
- job exit.
The development of this standard was led by ASC’s technical committee, which includes a majority of members who identify as persons with disabilities or as part of equity-deserving groups. Our technical committee members’ diverse lived experiences and expertise shaped the standard to address real-world barriers and deliver meaningful change for Canadians.
CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment aligns with SCC’s standards development organization requirements and guidance. This includes the involvement of a balanced committee of stakeholders, a rigorous public consultation, bilingual publication, and adherence to international standards development best practices.
The release of this standard reflects ASC’s commitment to developing world-class, equity-based standards that not only promote accessibility within Canada but can also serve as a model globally.
