Is AODA training mandatory in Ontario?
Yes. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and its Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR, Ontario Regulation 191/11) require every Ontario employer to train employees and volunteers on accessibility standards and on the provisions of the Ontario Human Rights Code that relate to persons with disabilities.
One important clarification: the law places the duty to train on the employer — it does not mandate an approved provider. No government accreditation is required to deliver AODA awareness training; what counts is the content taught and proof that staff were trained.
What the training covers
Complete AODA awareness training covers at least the following:
- The applicable accessibility standards (customer service, information and communications, employment, transportation, design of public spaces)
- How to serve customers, visitors, and colleagues with disabilities
- The provisions of the Ontario Human Rights Code relating to persons with disabilities
- Your organization's accessibility policies and procedures
- The obligations specific to your organization's size (1–19, 20–49, 50+ employees)
Who is covered
All Ontario employers, from small businesses to large corporations, as well as public bodies and non-profits.
- Employees, full-time and part-time
- Volunteers
- Anyone who participates in developing the organization's policies
Duration, pricing, validity
Messee's AODA awareness training is completed online, at your own pace, in French or English. Pricing depends on the number of participants (annual licences for businesses): see our pricing or request a free quote — we reply within 24 business hours. Every certificate issued carries a unique publicly verifiable code, which simplifies your compliance records.
Good to know: the regulation sets no expiry date for this awareness training. Training is nevertheless due whenever a new employee joins and whenever your accessibility policies change significantly.
Frequently asked questions
Is online AODA training valid in Ontario?
Yes. The regulation does not require in-person training: the employer must ensure the training covers the required topics and keep a record of every employee's and volunteer's training.
Do new hires need to be trained?
Yes. Training must be provided as soon as practicable after hiring, and again whenever the organization's accessibility policies change in a significant way.
Does the AODA certificate expire?
The regulation sets no expiry date for awareness training. Keep the training record for as long as the person holds their position, in line with your record-retention practices.
Is government accreditation required to provide AODA training?
No. The law does not impose an approved provider or any government accreditation for awareness training: what matters is the content taught and proof that staff were trained.
Do volunteers also need to be trained?
Yes. The training obligation under the IASR covers employees, volunteers, and anyone who participates in developing the organization's policies.
Is the training available in French and English?
Yes. Messee training is offered in French and English, and every certificate carries a unique publicly verifiable code.
What happens if an employer doesn't train their staff?
Non-compliance with the AODA exposes the organization to inspections and administrative penalties set out in the law. Training staff is the simplest and least costly requirement to meet.
Bring your organization into compliance
Train your team on accessibility online, with verifiable certificates for your records.
Notice: this page and Messee training are general awareness resources; they are not legal advice. Compliance with the AODA and its regulations remains the employer's responsibility. When in doubt, consult a legal professional or Ontario's official website.