Accessibility Standards Canada announced the publication of the CAN-ASC-3.1:2025 Plain Language standard. This equity-based standard is the first National Standard of Canada on plain language. The release coincides with International Plain Language Day, marking a milestone in advancing accessibility in Canada.
Plain language is essential to accessibility and inclusion. A communication is in plain language when its wording, structure, and design are so clear that the intended audience can easily:
- find what they need,
- understand what they find,
- use that information.
The CAN-ASC-3.1:2025 Plain Language standard provides organizations with practical requirements and principles to remove communication barriers. It:
- explains when plain language should be used,
- describes barriers people may face,
- sets out clear steps and strategies for removing and preventing those barriers.
Plain language benefits everyone. It helps people understand and trust the information they receive, act accordingly and avoid mistakes. It also helps organizations build trust with their audiences. It does so by reducing misunderstandings and follow-up questions, saving time and money, and strengthening their credibility.
The standard was developed by an Accessibility Standards Canada technical committee. The committee is made up primarily of people with disabilities and members of equity-deserving groups. The standard was finalized after a full public review with input from Canadians of diverse backgrounds.
The CAN-ASC-3.1:2025 Plain Language standard has been approved by the Standards Council of Canada as a National Standard of Canada. This approval confirms that the standard meets the Standards Council of Canada’s established requirements for standards development. It also means that it aligns with international best practices.
