Holmes + Brakel is committed to train all staff in accessible customer service as well as other Ontario accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code pertaining to individuals with disabilities. We will ensure that all staff are trained on:

The purpose of the AODA and the requirements for customer service standards.

Company policies related to customer service standards.

How to engage with individuals with various types of disabilities.

How to interact with people with disabilities who utilize assistive devices.

Those who require assistance of service animals or a support person.

What to do if a person with a disability is having issues accessing the organization’s goods, services or facilities.

We provide mandatory training programs for new hires and will continue to provide training courses periodically. If any changes to the policy are made, we will make sure all staff are provided updated training. We maintain adequate training records.

Individuals with disabilities are permitted to use their personal assistive devices when accessing our goods, services and facilities.

Holmes + Brakel will communicate with people with disabilities in a way that takes into account their disability. We will work with people with disabilities to determine what method of communication is best for them.

We welcome people with disabilities and their service animals. Service animals will be allowed access to premises that are open to the public.

An individual with a disability that requires the assistance of a support person will be permitted to have that person accompany them on our premises.

If there is an unexpected or planned disruption to services or facilities for customers with disabilities, we will promptly notify customers as well as clearly post information outlining the cause for the disruption and the expected time it will take to be fixed.

Holmes + Brakel welcomes feedback from our customers on how we are doing when it comes to providing accessible customer service. Feeback is important to help us to identify and remove barriers that may impact the customer experience.

If you have any feedback, please email hr@holmesbrakel.com.We will review and get back to you with a response in 7 business days.

When asked for information about our organization and services that we provide, we will do so in a timely manner and in an accessible format that takes into account the needs of the individual as well as at a cost no more than what the regular cost would be for other individuals. We will also meet internationally recognized Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA website requirements in accordance with Ontario’s accessibility laws.

Holmes + Brakel will notify employees, job applicants and the public that accommodation can be made during the recruitment and hiring process. We will consult with the applicant to arrange to accommodate them in a way that is suitable for their needs. Successful candidates will be notified as to the policies for accommodating employees with disabilities when making the offer of employment.

We will ensure that the correct support is available to staff members with a disability as soon as possible after they begin their employment. We will consult with the employees to determine the accessible format or communication supports that will be needed in order to perform their job; and information that is generally available to employees in the workplace. If needed, customized emergency information will be made available to help an employee with a disability in case of an emergency. With the consent of the employee this information will be shared with an individual who is designated to assist them in case of an emergency.

Any policy, practice or procedure of Holmes + Brakel that does not respect and promote the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity for people with disabilities will be modified or removed. This policy will be reviewed every 5 years or as needed.

Annual Training per Policy – New Hires within 1 month of start date. Existing
Employees by December 31.