Ontario Government Seeks Public Feedback on the Final Proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard, Proposed by the Transportation Standards Development Committee

March 17, 2009

SUMMARY

Earlier this year, the Ontario government made public the final proposal for a Transportation Accessibility Standard. This was developed last fall by the Transportation Standards Development Committee. (See 31-page text of this proposal below.)

This proposed Transportation Accesibility Standard was prepared under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005. If passed into law by the Ontario Government, either as proposed here, or after being modified, it would become legally enforceable.

It is open to the Government to pass this proposed accessibility standard as is, or to make any changes that it wishes. The Ontario government is seeking public input on this final proposed standard. We understand that the Ontario Government is giving the public only until March 31, 2009 to give feedback.

The AODA Alliance has asked the Government to extend this deadline. We are concerned that many, including the disability community, have been very busy providing input on the initial proposed Information and Communication Accessibility Standard, and have also recently been asked to provide input on the initial proposed Employment Accessibility Standard. This is a great deal to ask of the disability community in such a condensed period of time.

Regrettably, to date, the Ontario Government has refused to grant the extension we requested. Nevertheless, we urge you to provide the Government with your thoughts on this final proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard, whether you are ready before March 31, 2009 or afterward.

We also ask you to send us at the AODA Alliance your feedback on this proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard. We are now working on a brief on this proposed accessibility standard, and are eager for your thoughts. Send the AODA Alliance your feedback at: aodafeedback@rogers.com

Send the Ontario Government your feedback at:

Mail: Accessibility Directorate of Ontario
Outreach and Compliance Branch
Ministry of Community and Social Services
777 Bay Street, Suite 601
Toronto ON Canada
M7A 2J4

E-mail: accessibility@css.gov.on.ca
Telephone: 416-314-0529
TTY: 416-326-0148 / Toll-free: 1-888-335-6611
Fax: 416-326-9725

You might wish to consider questions such as:

Will this proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard make public transportation in Ontario fully barrier-free and accessible for all persons with disabilities by 2025?
Does the final proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard cover all the barriers that persons with disabilities face when using public transportation?
Are time lines for removing and preventing barriers appropriate?
Does this final proposal reflect feedback that the disability community gave the Government in 2007 when it circulated the initial proposal for a Transportation Accessibility Standard?
Is this proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard effectively enforceable?

The AODA Alliance, along with many others in the disability community, were very disappointed with the initial proposal for a transportation accessibility standard that the Transportation Standards Development Committee released to the public in June of 2007. You can see our brief to the Ontario government on that initial proposal for this standard at:
http://www.www.aodaalliance.org/2007-ontario-election/please-tell-the-ontario-government-whether-you-support-the-aoda-alliances-brief-on-the-proposed-transportation-accessibility-standard/

We were heartened that many from the disability community wrote to the government to support our brief on the initial proposed standard.

We know that this draft is long and detailed. The Ontario Government’s website offers a plain language guide to it and a comparison between this final proposal and the initial proposal for the Transportation Accessibility Standard circulated in 2007. Visit:
http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/mcss/english/pillars/accessibilityOntario/accesson/business/transportation/

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Final Proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard

0 Preface
1 Scope
1.1 General
1.2 Classes
2 Terms and Definitions
3 Long-term Objectives
4 General Requirements
4.1 Training
4.2 Emergency preparedness and response
4.3 Operator responsibilities
4.4 Fares and fees
4.5 Compliance schedules
5 Passenger Transportation Services – Operational Practices and Procedures
5.1 Boarding/de-boarding assistance
5.2 Boarding/de-boarding stops
5.3 Storage of assistive devices
5.4 On-board announcement of stops and connections
5.5 Support person fares
5.6 Availability of accessibility equipment and features
5.7 Maintenance of facilities and equipment
6 Passenger Transportation Services – Conveyance Requirements
6.1 Accessible conveyances and fleets
6.2 Ferry vessels
6.3 Route or destination signage
6.4 Pre-boarding route or destination announcements
6.5 Boarding/de-boarding lifting devices, ramps, or portable bridge plates
6.6 Indicators
6.7 Steps
6.8 Grab Bars/Handholds/Handrails/Stanchions
6.9 Floor surfaces
6.10 Allocated space
6.11 Accessible aisle
6.12 Stop-request and emergency response controls
6.13 Lighting and colour contrasting
6.14 Light, commuter, and inter-city railcars
7 Accessible Public Transit Services – Service Requirements
7.1 Application
7.2 Accessible public transit policy and planning
7.3 Eligibility
7.4 Eligibility process
7.5 Visitor service
7.6 Type of service
7.7 Transportation between adjacent municipalities
7.8 Time of service
7.9 Trip Restrictions
7.10 Reservations
7.11 Companions
7.12 Service delays
7.13 Fares
8 On-demand Taxi Services
8.1 Accessible vehicles
8.2 Taxi registration, company and vehicle identification information
8.3 Compliance schedules
9 Booked Services
9.1 Level of service
9.2 Operator responsibilities
9.3 Compliance schedules
10 School Transportation Services
10.1 Level of service
10.2 School accessible transportation plans
10.3 Compliance schedules
11 Other Transportation Services
11.1 Level of service
11.2 Operator responsibilities
11.3 Compliance schedules
Annex A (Informative) – Accessible Public Transit Services

Proposed Transportation Accessibility Standard

0 Preface

The Accessibility for Ontarians With Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) provides for the development of standards in order to achieve accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities with respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures, and premises on or before January 1, 2025.

The Minister responsible for the AODA is required to establish a process to develop and implement all accessibility standards necessary to achieving the purposes of this Act. Within this process, standards development committees are established by the Minister to develop proposed accessibility standards.

Persons and organizations may be required to meet more than one accessibility standard under the AODA. Therefore, the following standard should be read in conjunction with other AODA standards and other applicable legislation and regulations to enable persons and organizations to determine and understand the full extent of requirements they will be mandated to comply with.

Note: The requirements specified in this Standard should be considered a baseline and persons or organizations that provide passenger transportation services are encouraged to exceed the minimum requirements.

1 Scope

1.1 General

This proposed transportation accessibility standard specifies long-term objectives and technical requirements to prevent and remove barriers to persons with disabilities in the use of passenger transportation services in the Province of Ontario by January 1, 2025.

This proposed transportation accessibility standard applies to all persons or organizations providing or responsible for the following types of passenger transportation services in the Province of Ontario:

a) Accessible Public Transit Services, including:
Urban transit buses;
Streetcars;
Subway cars;
Light rail cars;
Other public transit service vehicles;
Commuter rail cars;
Inter-city rail cars;
Commuter buses;
Small and large inter-city coaches; and
Ferry vessels.

b) Accessible Public Transit Services, including those provided by:
Single-tier municipalities; and
Multiple-tier municipalities or not-for-profit organizations.

c) On-Demand Taxi Services, including:
Independent operators;
Brokerages and dispatch services; and
Licensing authorities.

d) Booked Vehicle Services, including:
Taxis;
Limousines;
Shuttle vehicles or buses;
Tour buses; and
Community service transportation vehicles.

e) School Transportation Services, including:
Public school boards; and
Private school boards.

f) Other Transportation Services, including, but not limited to:
Hospitals and long-term care homes;
Colleges and universities;
Amusement parks and zoos;
Hotels;
Service clubs;
Faith-based organizations; or
Employers for employees.

1.2 Classes

This final proposed transportation accessibility standard applies to persons or organizations providing the following classes of passenger transportation services in the Province of Ontario:

Class I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses
Class II Intercity Bus – Small
Class III Streetcars
Class IV Light Rail
Class V Commuter Rail
Class VI Intercity Rail
Class VII Subway
Class VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles
Class IX Ferry Vessel
Class Xa Accessible Public Transit Service – Single Tier Municipality
Class Xb Accessible Public Transit Service – Multiple Tier Municipality and Not-For-Profit Operations
Class XIa On-demand Taxi Service, Independent Operator
Class XIb On-demand Taxi Service, brokerage or dispatch service
Class XIc On-demand Taxi Service, licensing authority
Class XII Booked Vehicle Service
Class XIII School Transportation
Class XIV Other Passenger Transportation Service

2 Terms and Definitions

Accessible fixed route public transit – a public transit service that operates on a fixed route with identified stop locations at fixed intervals as determined by the transportation service provider, which utilizes low-floor buses and stops that have been modified to accommodate the use of the kneeling and ramp features of the low-floor bus.

Accessible public transit service – various accessible service options developed and implemented to address the transportation requirements for persons with disabilities that are provided by passenger transportation service provider.

NOTE Accessible public transit services include, but not are not limited to, conventional fixed route, to-the-door shared ride, shuttles (eg, medical, workshop) or community buses.

Accessible public transit service vehicle – all new vehicles, not included in Classes I, II, III IV or V that are employed in the delivery of accessible public transit services.

Assistive device – a technical aid, communication device, or medical aid modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional ability of a person with a disability.

Base fare structure – the current published fare structure, including both rates and fare media options, for defined fixed route services, which may include premium pricing for high end services such as express services.

Booked service – a service provided by taxis, limousines, shuttles, tour buses or community service transportation vehicles where a reservation or booking is recorded at least one half hour prior to service delivery.

Community service transportation vehicle – a conveyance that is owned, leased, or rented by a organization providing a community service, including an approved agency under the Long-Term Care Act, 1994 (LTCA) for the provision of transportation services as defined by, and in accordance with the LTCA.

Companion – a person with whom one travels and who is not a support person.

Disability – means
a) any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device,
b) a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability,
c) a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language,
d) a mental disorder, or
e) an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997; (“handicap”).

Equivalent service – equal opportunity to obtain, use, and benefit from the service.

Fixed route public transit
A public transit service that operates on a fixed route with identified stop locations at fixed intervals as determined by the transportation service provider.

Inter-city coach, small – a van or bus with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 4536 kg. (10 000 lb.) or less.

Inter-city coach, large – a van or bus with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 4536 kg. (10 000 lb.).

Medical aid – an assistive device including but not limited to such devices as a respirator, or a portable oxygen supply.

Mobility aid – a device used to facilitate the transport of a person with disability.

Multiple-tier municipality – a regional jurisdiction formed by two or more municipalities for municipal purposes.

Municipality – an incorporated geographic area.

New conveyance – a conveyance that is offered for sale or lease after manufacture without any prior use.

On-demand taxi service – a service provided by taxi vehicles hailed on the road or where a reservation or booking is recorded less than one half hour prior to service delivery.

On-demand taxi service, brokerage and dispatch service – the general business of accepting orders for, or dispatching, in any manner, taxis that are not specifically owned by that business.

On-demand taxi service, independent operator – taxi owners or drivers, who are not affiliated with a brokerage or dispatch service and do not communicatie with a brokerage.

On-demand taxi service, licensing authority – a local municipality, who governs the taxi industry through by-law.

Other transportation services – transportation services offered to the general public which are not included in classes XI through XIII.

Portable bridge plate – a flat surface device for spanning short distances between railcars and loading platforms.

School transportation – transportation to and from the public or private school that a pupil attends.

Service animal – an animal is a service animal for a person with a disability,
(a) if it is readily apparent that the animal is used by the person for reasons relating to his or her disability; or
(b) if the person provides a letter from a physician or nurse confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons relating to the disability.

Single-tier municipality – a municipality, other than an multiple-tier municipality, that does not form part of an multiple-tier municipality for municipal purposes.

Support person – means, in relation to a person with a disability, another person who accompanies him or her in order to help with communication, mobility, personal care or medical needs or with access to goods or services.

Transportable mobility aid – a mobility aid that can fit within an allocated space on which the user can remain in a seated posture and be safely boarded and transported on a passenger transportation service.

Transportation service provider – person or organization making the decision to provide public transit services included in this Standard, not including services provided by a person or organization that is federally regulated.

3 Long-term Objectives

The objective of the initial proposed transportation accessibility standard is to make passenger transportation services under provincial and municipal jurisdiction in Ontario accessible for persons with disabilities.

4 General Requirements

4.1 Training

Persons or organizations providing passenger transportation services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document employee/volunteer accessibility training policies and procedures in consultation with persons with disabilities. The employee/volunteer accessibility training policies and procedures shall:

a) provide for accessibility training prior to commencement of regular duties for new employees and volunteers appropriate to their duties;
b) provide for “refresher” training on a regular basis that includes any changes to policies, practices, and procedures;
c) recognize training responsibilities related to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005;
d) include measurable learning outcomes and evaluation mechanisms;
e) include sensitivity training addressing various types of disability;
f) address boarding, seating and de-boarding responsibilities;
g) address the safe use of accessibility-related equipment or features, including transportable mobility aid securement systems;
h) address the function of support persons, service animals, and assistive devices;
i) include methods for interacting with passengers who are accompanied by support persons or service animals, or use assistive devices, including, upon request, orientation on the safe use of the conveyance;
j) address the safe handling and storage of mobility aids and assistive devices;
k) address acceptable modifications to procedures in situations where temporary barriers exist or accessibility equipment fails;
l) refer to emergency preparedness and response policies and procedures;
m) include operator training addressing responsibilities during an emergency, including the provision of emergency information that an individual with a sensory or other disability can respond to appropriately, detachment of securement systems and assistance to passengers with disabilities when evacuation is required.

4.2 Emergency preparedness and response

Persons or organizations providing passenger transportation services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document emergency preparedness and response policy and procedures that provides for the safety of passengers with various abilities such that operators and passengers can respond appropriately.

4.3 Operator responsibilities

Persons or organizations providing passenger transportation services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document policies and procedures which require conveyance operators to:

a) provide service to persons with disabilities able to use the conveyance, including those using mobility aids or service animals;
b) use boarding/de-boarding lifting devices, ramps, or portable bridge plates applicable to the conveyance if a person with a disability requests their use;
c) ensure that adequate time is provided to persons with disabilities to safely board, be secured, and de-board conveyances;
d) ensure route and destination information is, upon request, provided to passengers before boarding;
e) assist persons with disabilities with boarding, securement, and de-boarding conveyances, upon request;
f) assist with the safe and careful stowing of mobility aids, upon request;
g) provide service to a person with a disability even if the person’s disability results in appearance or involuntary behaviour that may inconvenience employees or other persons;
h) allow a person with a disability to travel with medical aids allowed under relevant health and safety laws and regulations.

4.4 Fares and fees

Where fares and fees are charged to the passenger, persons or organizations providing passenger transportation services shall not charge passengers with a disability a

a) higher fare than passengers without a disability, for the same trip at the same time of day; or
b) fee for the stowage of assistive devices.

4.5 Compliance schedules

Class
Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
4.1 Training
4.2 Emergency preparedness and response
4.3 Responsibilities
4.4 Fares and fees

I
Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses

1
1
n/a

II
Intercity Bus – Small

1
1
n/a

III
Streetcars

1
1
n/a

IV
Light Rail

1
1
n/a

V
Commuter Rail

1
1
n/a

VI
Intercity Rail

1
1
n/a

VII
Subway

1
1
n/a

VIII
Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles

1
1
n/a

IX
Ferry Vessel

1
1
n/a

Xa
Accessible Public Transit Service – Single Tier Municipality

1
1
n/a

Xb
Accessible Public Transit Service – Multiple Tier Municipality and Not-For-Profit Operations

1
1
n/a

Xia
On-demand Taxi Service, Independent Operator
n/a
1
1
immediate

Xib
On-demand Taxi Service, brokerage or dispatch service

1
1
immediate

Xic
On-demand Taxi Service, licensing authority
n/a
1
1
n/a

XII
Booked Vehicle Service

1
1
immediate

XIII
School Transportation

1
1
n/a

XIV
Other Passenger Transportation Service

1
1
immediate

5 Passenger Transportation Services – Operational Practices and Procedures

5.1 Boarding/de-boarding assistance

The transportation provider of single-unit conveyances shall ensure that operators:

a) provide boarding/de-boarding assistance to a person with a disability such that the health and safety of the operator or the person with a disability is not jeopardized;
b) offer to secure transportable mobility aids where securement systems exist; and
c) do not deploy boarding/de-boarding lifting devices, ramps, or portable bridge plates if the operator deems the location or stop to be unsafe for deployment because of a barrier;
d) report locations or stops deemed unsafe for deployment to the transportation provider

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 1
II Intercity Bus – Small 1
VI Intercity Rail 1
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 1

5.2 Boarding/de-boarding stops

Where a passenger is unable to board/de-board a conveyance because the stop is not yet accessible or because of a temporary barrier, the transportation provider shall ensure that the operator allows passengers to board/de-board at the closest available safe location on the same route acceptable to the operator and passenger.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 1
II Intercity Bus – Small 1
III Streetcars 1
IV Light Rail 1
V Commuter Rail 1
VI Intercity Rail 1
VII Subway 1
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 1
IX Ferry Vessel 1

5.3 Storage of assistive devices

The transportation provider shall ensure that the operator transports assistive devices in the passenger compartment within reach of the passenger if safe stowage is possible.

If safe storage of assistive devices in the passenger compartment is not possible, the transportation provider may allow the operator to stow assistive devices in the baggage compartment of the conveyance on which the person is traveling.

The transportation provider shall ensure that the operator of a vehicle with a baggage compartment stores, secures and returns assistive devices in a manner that does not adversely affect the safety of other passengers on the conveyance and does not cause damage to the assistive device.

5.4 On-board announcement of stops and connections

The transportation provider shall ensure that operators audibly announce, through verbal or electronic means, all destination points or stops for services that do not require pre-booking.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 1
II Intercity Bus – Small 1
III Streetcars 1
IV Light Rail 1
V Commuter Rail 1
VI Intercity Rail 1
VII Subway 1
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 1
IX Ferry Vessel 1

The transportation provider shall ensure that, for services that do not require pre-booking, all destination points or stops are.:

a) announced through electronic means; and
b) legibly and visually displayed through electronic means.

Visual displays of stop information shall conform to the requirements of Clause 6.3 (route and destination signage).

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 6
II Intercity Bus – Small 6
III Streetcars 6
IV Light Rail 6
V Commuter Rail 6
VI Intercity Rail 6
VII Subway 6
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 6
IX Ferry Vessel 6

5.5 Support person fares

The transportation provider shall not charge a fare to a support person, recognized by the transportation provider, accompanying a passenger with a disability.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses
II Intercity Bus – Small
III Streetcars
IV Light Rail
V Commuter Rail
VI Intercity Rail
VII Subway
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles
IX Ferry Vessel

5.6 Availability of accessibility equipment and features

The transportation provider shall make available current information on the availability of accessibility-related equipment and features of their conveyances, routes and services.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 1
II Intercity Bus – Small 1
III Streetcars 1
IV Light Rail 1
V Commuter Rail 1
VI Intercity Rail 1
VII Subway 1
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 1
IX Ferry Vessel 1

5.7 Maintenance of facilities and equipment

The transportation provider shall establish, implement, maintain and document procedures to:

a) maintain accessibility-related facilities and equipment in good working order.
b) ensure that operators report any accessibility-related equipment failure to the transportation provider.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
II Intercity Bus – Small 2
III Streetcars 2
IV Light Rail 2
V Commuter Rail 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VII Subway 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2

6 Passenger Transportation Services – Conveyance Requirements

6.1 Accessible conveyances and fleets

The transportation provider shall ensure that all purchased public transit conveyances put into service conform with the applicable requirements of this standard.

Where existing contractual obligations to purchase conveyances that are not in conformance with this standard exist at the time this Standard becomes regulation, the transportation provider may honour the existing contract.

The transportation provider shall develop and maintain a retrofit plan that details measures to retrofit non-accessible conveyances such that they come into conformance with the applicable requirements of this standard or to replace non-accessible conveyances with new or used conveyances that are in conformance with the applicable requirements of this standard.

The transportation provider shall ensure that all public transit conveyance fleets conform to the applicable requirements of this standard.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 14
II Intercity Bus – Small 14
III Streetcars 14
IV Light Rail 14
V Commuter Rail 14
VI Intercity Rail 14
VII Subway 14
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 14
IX Ferry Vessel 14

6.2 Ferry vessels

The transportation provider shall provide ferry vessels that conform to the Canadian Transportation Agency Code of Practice for Ferry Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (1999).

The transportation provider shall, on conveyances that transport vehicles:

a) provide a designated parking space with an adjacent access aisle of no less than 920 mm;
b) ensure a safe distance between car park areas and passenger lounges exists such that passengers using transportable mobility aids may safely exit in the event of an emergency.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
IX Ferry Vessel 2

6.3 Route or destination signage

The transportation provider shall ensure the legible display of the route or direction, or the destination or next major stop of the conveyance such that it is visible at the boarding point. Route and destination signage may include pictograms or symbols.

Route and destination signage, including electronic display monitors, shall:

a) be consistently located;
b) have a glare-free surface; and
c) be positioned to avoid shadow areas and glare.

Route and destination signage, including electronic display monitors, when used to give the same type of information within the same type of conveyance shall be consistently shaped, coloured, and positioned, with text that is colour-contrasted by at least 70% with its background.

Where route or destination signs are used on the conveyance, the transportation provider shall ensure that all new conveyances have signs that achieve the appearance of solid characters.

6.4 Pre-boarding route or destination announcements

For all services that do not require pre-booking, the transportation provider shall ensure that the operator audibly announces through manual or electronic means the route or direction, or the destination or next major stop of the conveyance at the boarding point prior to boarding.

6.5 Boarding/de-boarding lifting devices, ramps, or portable bridge plates

The transportation provider shall ensure lifting devices, ramps, or portable bridge plates have:

a) a colour strip 40 to 60 mm wide that runs the full width of the device or plate and is colour-contrasted by at least 70% with its background;
b) a platform surface that is slip resistant; and
c) safety wheel guards along all exposed edges.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
II Intercity Bus – Small 2
III Streetcars 2
IV Light Rail 2
V Commuter Rail* 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VII Subway 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2
* Applies to designated transportable mobility aid accessible rail cars only.

6.6 Indicators

The transportation provider shall ensure a visual amber warning lamp indicator is mounted on the exterior of all new conveyances near the accessible entrance door(s). The visual indicator shall be coupled with an audible warning alarm. Both the visual indicator and the audible warning alarm shall function when the conveyance is kneeling, when the ramp is deployed, or when the lift is in operation.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
III Streetcars 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2

The transportation provider shall ensure a door opening and closing visual indicator and audible alarm system is available on all new conveyances.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
IV Light Rail 2
V Commuter Rail 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VII Subway 2

6.7 Steps

The transportation provider shall ensure that:

a) the top outer edge of each step and all interior edges at raised floors are marked by a colour strip colour-contrasted by at least 70% with its background that runs the full width of the leading edge of the step and is readily apparent from both directions of travel; and
b) step surfaces are slip resistant and and produce minimal glare.

The transportation provider shall ensure that on new conveyances:

a) steps have uniform, closed riser heights and tread depths, subject to the structural limitations of the conveyance; and
b) step nosing do not overhang to create a tripping hazard and are flush with the floor at the floor level.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
II Intercity Bus – Small 2
III Streetcars 2
V Commuter Rail 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2

6.8 Grab Bars/Handholds/Handrails/Stanchions

The transportation provider shall ensure that on all new conveyances:

a) the location of grab bars, handholds, handrails, and stanchions are distributed throughout the conveyance to support independent and safe boarding, on-board circulation, seating and standing assistance, and de-boarding for people with disabilities;
b) one or more grab bars, handholds, handrails, or stanchions are provided at::
i. locations where passengers are required to pay fares;
ii. each transportable mobility aid securement position;
iii. each designated seating area intended for use by persons with disabilities; and
iv. each side of any entrance/exit used by persons with disabilities, accessible from ground level, and so mounted that they are inside the vehicle when the doors are closed;
c) grab bars, handholds, handrails, and stanchions do not interfere with the turning and manoeuvring space required for transportable mobility aids to reach the allocated space from the entrance;
d) grab bars, handholds, handrails, and stanchions are colour-contrasted by at least 70% with their background;
e) every grab bar, handhold, handrail, or stanchion:
i. is sturdy, rounded and free of any sharp or abrasive element;
ii. has an exterior diameter that permits easy grasping by the full range of passengers and sufficient clearance from the surface to which they are attached;
iii. is designed to prevent catching or snagging of clothes or personal items; and
iv. has a slip resistant surface;
f) grab bars, handrails, or stanchions return to a wall or floor in a smooth curve;
g) brackets, clamps, screw heads, and other fasteners used on the grab bars, handholds, handrails, or stanchions are rounded or flush with the surface and free from burrs or rough edges.

6.9 Floor surfaces

The transportation provider shall ensure that floor surfaces of all new conveyances:

a) produce minimal glare;
b) avoid the use of patterns;
c) are slip resistant.

The transportation provider shall ensure, where provided, carpeted surfaces have a low, firm and level pile or loop and are securely fastened.

6.10 Allocated space

On all new conveyances, the transportation provider shall:

a) provide two or more allocated transportable mobility aid spaces on the conveyance each having a minimum clear space of 1220 mm by 762 mm;
b) provide, as appropriate, securement devices; and
c) where possible, consolidate allocated spaces to accommodate larger mobility aids.

An allocated space may be used for other passenger purposes, if it is not required for use by a passenger with a transportable mobility aid.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
II Intercity Bus – Small 2
III Streetcars 2
IV Light Rail 2
V Commuter Rail* 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VII Subway 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2
* Applies to designated transportable mobility aid accessible rail cars only.

6.11 Accessible aisle

The transportation provider shall, on all new conveyances, ensure that sufficient space is available for persons using transportable mobility aids to:

a) board and de-board the vehicle; and
b) turn and manoeuvre between the accessible doorway and the allocated spaces.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
I Public Transit, Commuter and Intercity Buses 2
II Intercity Bus – Small 2
III Streetcars 2
IV Light Rail 2
V Commuter Rail* 2
VI Intercity Rail 2
VII Subway 2
VIII Other Accessible Public Transit Service Vehicles 2
IX Ferry Vessel 2
* Applies to designated transportable mobility aid accessible rail cars only.

6.12 Stop-request and emergency response controls

The transportation provider shall ensure that, where applicable, accessible stop-request and emergency response controls are available throughout new conveyances, including within reach of allocated spaces and seated passengers.

Stop-request and emergency response controls shall:

a) provide auditory and visual indications that the request has been made;
b) be mounted no higher than 1220 mm and no lower than 380 mm above the floor;
c) be operable with one hand;
d) be colour contrasted with the equipment to which the control is mounted; and
e) provide tactile information on emergency controls.

Stop-request and emergency response controls shall not require:

a) tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist; or
b) a force greater than 22.2 N to activate the control.

6.13 Lighting and colour contrasting

The transportation provider shall ensure that all new conveyances incorporate colour contrasting and lighting features that promote independent boarding, on-board circulation and de-boarding for passengers with visual disabilities.

Any step well or doorway immediately adjacent to the driver shall have, when the door is open, an illuminance of at least 20 lux when measured on the step tread or lift platform.

Other step wells and doorways, including doorways in which lifts or ramps are installed, shall have, at all times, an illuminance of at least 20 lux when measured on the step tread, or lift or ramp, when deployed.

The vehicle doorways, including doorways in which lifts or ramps are installed, shall have outside light(s) which, when the door is open, provide an illuminance of at least 10 lux when measured on the street surface for a distance of 0.9 m perpendicular to the bottom step tread or lift outer edge. Such light(s) shall be shielded to protect the eyes of entering and exiting passengers.

Accessibility equipment and features shall be colour-contrasted by at least 70% with their background.

6.14 Light, commuter, and inter-city railcars

The transportation provider shall provide a minimum of one transportable mobility aid accessible rail car per train.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
V Commuter Rail
VI Intercity Rail

The transportation provider shall ensure that all passenger rail cars are accessible to the broad range of disabilities, including persons using transportable mobility aids.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
IV Light Rail
VI Intercity Rail

The transportation provider shall ensure that all passenger rail cars are accessible to persons with disabilities other than those who use transportable mobility aids.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
V Commuter Rail

7 Accessible Public Transit Services – Service Requirements

7.1 Application

Clause 7 requirements apply to transportation providers who operate municipal conventional fixed route public transit services.

Transportation providers who operate municipal conventional fixed route public transit services shall provide accessible public transit services to passengers with disabilities that are comparable to the level of service provided to individuals without disabilities who use the conventional fixed route public transportation system. To be deemed comparable to conventional fixed route public transportation, the transportation provider shall meet the requirements of Section 7. Annex A describes the concept of accessible public transit services.

7.2 Accessible public transit policy and planning

The transportation provider shall establish, implement, maintain and document an accessible public transit plan that includes policies, procedures and performance measures that ensure the provision of equivalent transportation services to all passengers.

The transportation provider shall establish, implement and maintain the accessible public transit plan in consultation with an upper or lower tier municipal accessibility or accessible public transit advisory committee that includes a majority of persons with disabilities or their representatives.

The transportation provider shall make available publicly, local accessible transit advisory committee member application and nomination procedures, member appointments, and minutes of meetings.

The accessible public transit plan shall, at a minimum, outline the:
a) accessible public transit policies;
b) Terms of Reference for the local accessible public transit advisory committee;
c) measures to achieve compliance with Clause 6 Fixed Route Public Transportation Services – Conveyance Requirements;
d) types of services offered;
e) time of services offered;
f) the catchment service area;
g) process for estimating the demand for service;
h) base fare structure;
i) definition of pick-up time delay;
j) eligibility process;
k) punitive actions taken on registrants who do not conform with the policies and procedures; and
l) companion and dependent travel policy;
m) process to manage, evaluate and take necessary corrective action on customer feedback.

The accessible public transit plan shall, at a minimum, identify and report actual results against performance measures. Performance measures relating to all service options exclusive of conventional fixed route shall, at a minimum, include:

a) scheduled pick up times versus requested pick up times;
b) actual pick up times versus scheduled times;
c) trip denials;
d) missed or cancelled trips;
e) trip durations;
f) eligibility determination time;
g) application of punitive actions taken on registrants who do not conform with the policies and procedures; and
h) number, type and status of customer feedback.

The transportation provider shall annually:

a) review and update the accessible public transit plan; and
b) make available publicly the accessible public transit plan.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
Xa Accessible Public Transit Service – Single Tier Municipality 2
Xb Accessible Public Transit Service – Multiple Tier Municipality and Not-For-Profit Operations 2

7.3 Eligibility

The transportation provider shall provide accessible public transit services to people with disabilities that are not able to use fixed route public transit conditionally, temporarily or permanently.

The transportation provider shall consider an individual eligible for accessible public transit services if the individual’s disability:

a) prevents their ability to use fixed route public transit (unconditional eligibility);
b) temporarily prevents their ability to use fixed route public transit (temporary eligibility); and/or
c) environmental or physical barriers limit their ability to consistently use fixed route public transit (conditional eligibility).

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
Xa Accessible Public Transit Service – Single Tier Municipality
Xb Accessible Public Transit Service – Multiple Tier Municipality and Not-For-Profit Operations

7.4 Eligibility process

The transportation provider shall:

a) make available, upon request, all accessible public transit eligibility application and decision information in accessible formats;
b) consider an applicant provisionally eligible if an eligibility determination has not been made within 14 calendar days following receipt of an application with complete information; and
c) establish an independent appeal process for eligibility decisions that are unfavourable to the applicant with a final decision rendered within 30 calendar days upon receipt of an appeal application with complete information.

The transportation providers may require a re-assessment of the eligibility of temporarily eligible registrant at reasonable intervals.

The transportation provider shall establish an independent appeal process for decisions that are unfavourable to the applicant with a final decision rendered within 30 calendar days upon receipt of an appeal application with complete information.

7.5 Visitor service

The transportation provider shall:

a) make accessible public transit service available to visitors;
b) consider as eligible, visitors who provide confirmation that they are eligible for accessible public transit in the jurisdiction in which they reside or visitors who meet the accessible public transit eligibility requirements of the host jurisdiction.

7.6 Type of service

The transportation provider shall deliver origin to destination services that are considerate of the functional abilities of passengers.

7.7 Transportation between adjacent municipalities

Where accessible public transit services are provided in adjacent municipalities within a contiguous urban area, the transportation providers of both services shall facilitate connections between respective services.

7.8 Time of service

The transportation provider shall provide at a minimum the same hours and days of service for all accessible public transit services as that provided by fixed route public transit in the same catchment service area.

Where the provision of accessible public transit services are split between upper and lower tiers of a municipal jurisdiction, the transportation provider shall provide the same hours and days of accessible public transit service as provided by the fixed route public service in each tier.

7.9 Trip Restrictions

The transportation provider shall not limit the availability of accessible public transit services to eligible passengers by:

a) restricting the number of trips an eligible passenger is able to request.
b) implementing any policy or operational practice that limits the availability of service, excluding the provision of subscription trips.

7.10 Reservations

For those accessible public transit service options requiring reservations, the transportation provider shall:

a) accept booking requests at least 3 hours prior to the published close of the booking period the previous day; and
b) provide same day service to the extent that service is available.

The transportation provider shall provide an accessible means to accept reservations.

7.11 Companions

The transportation provider may allow companions to travel with an eligible passenger if space is available and will not result in the denial of service to other eligible persons.

The transportation provider shall allow dependants to travel with an eligible parent if appropriate child restraint securement systems and equipment are, if required, available.

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
Xa Accessible Public Transit Service – Single Tier Municipality 1
Xb Accessible Public Transit Service – Multiple Tier Municipality and Not-For-Profit Operations 1

7.12 Service delays

For those accessible public transit service options requiring reservations, the transportation provider shall provide information on the duration of pick up delays to impacted passengers by a method agreed to by the transportation provider and passenger.

7.13 Fares

The transportation provider shall apply the same base fare structure to all public transit services within a jurisdiction. The base fare structure does not include promotional fares or charter rates that a service provider may employ from time to time.

The transportation provider shall provide the same fare media options to all passengers within a jurisdiction. Where a fare media option is not yet accessible, the transportation provider shall provide an alternative option.

8 On-demand Taxi Services

8.1 Accessible vehicles

Independent operators, brokerages or dispatch services shall provide on-demand taxi services using:

a) standard taxis with accessibility features; and
b) wheelchair accessible taxis.

8.2 Taxi registration, company and vehicle identification information

Independent operators, brokerages or dispatch services providing on-demand taxi services shall make available taxi registration numbers or where taxi registration numbers are not available, company and vehicle identification information, for all taxis.

Taxi registration numbers or company and vehicle identification information shall be made available on the exterior of the taxi:

a) adjacent to both rear entrance doors;
b) in numbers or letters at least 150 mm in height; and
c) colour-contrasted by at least 70% with their background.

Taxi registration numbers or company and vehicle identification information shall be made available on the interior of the taxi:

a) inside the rear passenger door;
b) in Type 1 Braille;
c) in large print; and
d) colour-contrasted by at least 70% with their background.

8.3 Compliance schedules

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
8.1 Accessible vehicles 8.2 Taxi registration, company and vehicle identification information
Class XIa On-demand taxi service, independent operators 5 1
Class XIb On-demand taxi service, brokerages and dispatch services 5 1
Class XIc On-demand taxi service, licensing authority 5 na

9 Booked Services

9.1 Level of service

Persons or organizations providing booked services shall provide accessible vehicles and equivalent service upon request. Persons or organizations providing booked services may contract or co-ordinate with other transportation providers to provide equivalent services.

9.2 Operator responsibilities

Persons or organizations providing booked services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document policies and procedures, which require conveyance operators to:

9.3 Compliance schedules

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
9.1 Level of service 9.2 Operator responsibilities
Class XIV Other passenger transportation services immediately 2

10 School Transportation Services

10.1 Level of service

Persons or organizations providing school transportation services shall provide integrated school transportation for all students.

Where the provision of integrated school transportation is not possible, or not the best option for the student with a disability due to the nature of the disability or safety concerns, persons or organizations providing school transportation services shall provide appropriate alternative accessible transportation for students with disabilities.

10.2 School accessible transportation plans

Persons or organizations providing school transportation services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document policies and procedures, in consultation with parents or guardians of students with disabilities that require:

a) the identification of students with disabilities prior to the commencement of each school year;
b) that individual school transportation plans be established for each student with a disability;
c) that individual boarding, securement, and deboarding plans that detail student assistance needs be established for each student with a disability; and
d) the identification and communication of roles and responsibilities of the provider, operator, parents/guardians, school staff, and students.

10.3 Compliance schedules

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
10.1 Level of service 10.2 School accessible transportation plan
Class XIII School transportation service immediately 1

11 Other Transportation Services

11.1 Level of service

Persons or organizations providing other transportation services shall provide accessible vehicles and equivalent service upon request. Persons or organizations providing other transportation services may contract or co-ordinate with other transportation providers to provide equivalent services.

11.2 Operator responsibilities

Persons or organizations providing other transportation services shall establish, implement, maintain, and document policies and procedures that require conveyance operators to:

a) inform passengers of destinations when boarding/de-boarding a conveyance;
b) provide to-the-door assistance to persons with disabilities, upon request;
c) provide reservation services to a person with a disability equivalent to those provided other passengers;
d) provide alternate means of service announcements and communicating delays for people with sensory or other disabilities; and
e) not request the assistance of persons other than employees of the transportation provider for routine boarding or other assistance to a person with a disability, unless the person with the disability requests or consents to such assistance.

11.3 Compliance schedules

Class Shall comply with this requirement within n years after this standard is adopted in regulation
11.1 Level of service 11.2 Operator responsibilities
Class XIV Other passenger transportation services immediately 3

Annex A (Informative) – Accessible Public Transit Services

The Accessible Public Transit Service requirements set out in this standard are intended to ensure that accessible public transit services are available to all members of a community, in which conventional fixed route services operate. The service requirements in Clause 7 set out criteria to ensure that all services offered will provide equivalent access to that provided by the conventional fixed route, but allow the flexibility to implement various service delivery options which best meet the needs of the disabled community. In addition to the fixed route system, accessible public transit services might include to-the-door shared ride, shuttles (eg, medical, workshop) or community buses services.

The graphic below provides an illustration of the concept, noting the extent to which any of the options are utilized is dependant upon the level of accessibility of the fixed route service and the demographics of the disability community in the municipality.

Service Option	Mobility Restriction
Accessible Fixed Route Service	None/ Able to use Accessible Features
Travel Training Programs	Novice/Cognitive/Memory
Community Bus Service	Limited Access
Flex-Route Service	Distance Related
Shuttle Services	Specific Trip Requirements
To-the-Door Service	Significant Mobility Restriction