To ensure compliance with the Manitoba Accessibility Standard for Information and Communications, which states that all information provided by Birchwood is accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes communication methods, digital content, and publicly available information related to our retail automotive operations, including services, promotions, and employment opportunities.
Birchwood is committed to providing accessible information and communications to all individuals, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) and the Manitoba Accessibility Standard for Information and Communications, we will implement practices that ensure access to clear, understandable, and user-friendly information.
This policy applies to the development, maintenance, and distribution of all publicly available information and communication channels within Birchwood in Manitoba, including:
5.1 Accessible Information Provision
All public information must be available in accessible formats upon request, free of charge, in a timely manner.
Accessible formats include, but are not limited to, large print, audio formats, and accessible digital formats.
5.2 Website and Digital Content Accessibility
Websites and digital content shall meet or exceed the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA standards.
All digital communication platforms, including social media and email, must include options for accessible content (e.g., alt-text on images, closed captioning on videos).
5.3 Internal and Team member Communications
Team member new communication platforms, intranet, websites and applications will include accessibility features, such as screen reader compatibility, text resizing, and high-contrast options. Previously establish communication platforms, intranet, websites and applications will be updated in the future.
Training will be provided for team members to ensure they understand how to use accessible communication channels.
5.4 Communication Supports
Communication support, including sign language interpretation, captioning, and alternative formats, shall be provided upon request following the process detailed below in section 8.
Customer service representatives and other frontline team members must be trained in alternative communication methods to support persons with disabilities.
Human Resources (HR): Responsible for ensuring training is provided to all team members on accessible communication practices and maintaining records of accessibility accommodations.
IT and Digital Teams: Ensure that all digital content complies with WCAG 2.1 standards and is accessible to all users.
Marketing and Communications: Ensure that all public communications, marketing materials, and website content are available in accessible formats.
Customer Service: Ensure staff are trained and equipped to provide accessible information and communications support for customers with disabilities.
All team members will undergo training on:
Training will be mandatory for all new team members and will be reviewed periodically to ensure compliance with updated standards.
General public requests and feedback on accessible formats or communication supports can be directed by any team member to Human Resources department through HR4 forms – Accessibility Feedback Form (click here). The request will be filtered and channeled to the appropriate areas to respond. Requests will be addressed promptly and free of charge, and accessible information will be provided in a manner that considers the person’s disability.
Birchwood will conduct regular reviews of its information and communications practices to ensure ongoing compliance with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act and any updates to accessibility standards. Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary actions.
Feedback on the accessibility of information and communications is welcome. Any concerns or suggestions can be directed to [email protected] or through HR4 forms – Accessibility Feedback Form (click here). Feedback will be used to improve our accessibility initiatives continuously. This policy is a commitment to fostering a more accessible and inclusive organization, ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to information and communication at Birchwood.
Reception: 204-832-1676
3965 Portage Avenue Unit #35D
Winnipeg, MB, R3K 2H7
