Stratus Comfort Inc. ("Stratus") recognizes the importance of providing equitable access and participation for individuals with disabilities. This policy outlines how Stratus upholds accessibility principles across its services, operations, and facilities in accordance with applicable laws.
Stratus supports the inclusive integration of people with disabilities throughout its operations. Stratus will work to identify and remove barriers to ensure accessible service delivery and compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 ("AODA") and relevant Ontario regulations.
This policy is established pursuant to the AODA and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation ("IAS Regulation") and sets out how Stratus will fulfill its accessibility commitments.
For the purpose of this policy, "disability" is defined as:
Stratus considers accessibility features when designing, selecting, or purchasing self-service kiosks intended for public access. A "kiosk" refers to an interactive electronic terminal, including point-of-sale devices, that allows users to access one or more services or products.
Stratus will provide or arrange for accessible formats and communication supports for people with disabilities upon request.
These formats and supports will be provided in a timely manner to meet their needs and at a cost no greater than the amount charged to other persons.
Stratus will consult with the person making the request to determine suitable formats or supports and will ensure the public is informed of the availability of such options.
Stratus maintains emergency procedures, plans, and public safety information. Where this information is made available to the public, it will also be provided in accessible formats or with appropriate communication supports as soon as practicable upon request.
Stratus is committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available throughout the recruitment and selection processes.
Applicants who are individually selected for an assessment or interview will be notified that accommodations are available upon request.
If an accommodation is requested, Stratus will consult with the applicant to provide suitable arrangements that respect the individual’s accessibility needs.
Stratus is committed to designing and maintaining its public spaces free of barriers and in accordance with the Design of Public Spaces Standards of the IAS Regulation, for any new construction or redevelopment projects.
Stratus has a commitment to provide accessible customer service to all individuals, including those with disabilities. The customer service approach is based on the principles of dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity.
Stratus will meet its accessibility requirements under Ontario’s accessibility laws and the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Individuals with disabilities are welcome to use their personal assistive devices to access Stratus goods, services, or facilities. Where a device presents a safety or operational concern, Stratus will work to provide an alternate method of access. Staff will be trained on the use of assistive devices available on-site.
Stratus will communicate with people with disabilities in ways that accommodate their needs. The company will consult with the individual to determine the most appropriate method of communication.
Stratus permits service animals in all publicly accessible areas of its premises. Where it is not readily apparent that an animal is a service animal, Stratus may request documentation from a regulated health professional confirming the need for the animal.
Regulated health professionals include members of:
If a service animal is legally excluded, Stratus will explain the reason and explore alternative arrangements to provide access to services or facilities.
Individuals with disabilities who are accompanied by a support person will be permitted to have that person accompany them on Stratus premises. In rare cases, where health or safety concerns exist, Stratus may require the presence of a support person for the safety of the individual or others.
In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption to services or facilities used by people with disabilities, Stratus will notify the public promptly. This notice will include the reason for the disruption, its expected duration, and information about any alternative services or facilities. Notices will be posted on-site, on the Stratus website, or shared through other appropriate communication channels.
Stratus ensures that all employees, volunteers, contractors, and others involved in policy development or public-facing services receive training on accessible customer service. Training will include:
Training will be updated when policies or procedures change.
Stratus welcomes feedback about the accessibility of its goods, services, and facilities. Feedback can be submitted in the following ways:
Accessible formats and communication supports for the feedback process are available upon request. Feedback will be reviewed in a timely manner, and appropriate action will be taken to address any concerns.
This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed.
Effective Date: August 13, 2025