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Access
Canada Standards & Training Program Recognizing that 15 per cent of the world’s population is comprised of seniors and persons with disabilities, the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) developed Access Canada. Access Canada is the rating of lodging properties based on the level of accessibility offered to guests with disabilities. The ratings, from Level 1 to 4, are based on extent and quality of accessible facilities, services and amenities, including sensitivity training for staff. The higher the rating, the more extensive are the facilities, services and amenities. The program, offered in both official languages, consists of two components: sensitivity training for staff; and standards of facility accessibility. The Sensitivity Training is designed for all members of hotel staff and includes recognition of various types of disabilities and how to serve guests with disabilities. The Standards clearly define four levels of facility accessibility for hotel certification. When hotels confirm to the HAC that they have met the standards of one of the four Access levels they receive certification from the HAC. Completion of both components is required in order to be recognized by the Hotel Association of Canada as an Access Canada property. The Access Canada Standards & Training Program is currently undergoing revisions in order to reflect recent changes in legislation, building code updates, as well as evolving market demands. Administration of the program is on hold until Spring 2007 when it is anticipated that updates and revisions will be complete. Properties that currently hold an Access Canada rating are still recognized for their participation in the program. The newly revised Access Canada program
has now been launched! |
