The new amended Ontario building code includes several provisions that improve accessibility for those with disabilities.
The changes include power door operators at entrances to more buildings and at barrier-free washrooms and common rooms in multi-unit residential buildings. The code also requires more accessible and adaptable seating spaces in public buildings such as theatres, lecture halls, and churches. New public pools and spas also must be barrier-free.
The amendments were spurred from the 2005 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act that set a target date of 2025 for “an accessible province.” The leader of an advocacy group warned that the pace of change is so slow the government is unlikely to meet its 2025 target, though.
The revamped Ontario building code also helps communities prepare for an aging population, a provincial government spokesman said.
(http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2015/01/20150101-132413.html)
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 7, 2021
Workers on some of Virginia’s major construction projects sue subcontractors for wage theft
Projects include new General Assembly Building, outpatient facility at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
EPA finalizes first major update to Lead and Copper rule
Will accelerate pace of lead service line replacement.
Codes and Standards | Jan 5, 2021
Flood risk for affordable housing expected to triple by 2050
Some communities will have 90% of their affordable housing at risk.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2021
Ranks of remote workers expected to double in five years
Nearly 23% of employees will work from outside of offices.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
CSI and ASTM standards can now be connected through a central location
CROSSWALK web service accesses standards specific to projects from feasibility to turnover.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
Dept. of Energy offers Better Buildings Field Validation Results Hub
One-stop-shop for information associated with technology validations in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
2021 Defense Authorization Act includes mass timber provision
Directs defense, agriculture secretaries to review potential for wood frame construction on defense building projects.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
New York City proposal would require rainwater detention tanks for new development
Rule would apply to projects on lots sized 20,000 sf or larger.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2020
Energy efficiency as a service gaining ground as financing approach for adopting innovations
Building owners can invest in new technology with no upfront cost.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
Resources available to address Legionella threat
Buildings reopened after extended pandemic closure are at risk.