AODA Statement of Commitment to Accessibility

Eurofins is committed to providing a barrier-free environment for all stakeholders including our clients/customers, employees, job applicants, suppliers, and any visitors who may enter our premises, access our information, or use our services. As an organization, we respect and uphold the requirements set forth under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), and its associated standards and regulations which sets out a process for developing and enforcing accessibility standards.

Eurofins understands that we have a responsibility for ensuring a safe, dignified, and welcoming environment for everyone. We are committed to ensuring our organization’s compliance by incorporating accessibility legislation into our policies, procedures, equipment requirements, training, and best practices. We will review these policies and practices annually, as organizational changes occur, or in anticipation of compliance deadlines. In addition, we will strive to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in a timely and effective manner.

Providing an accessible and barrier-free environment is a shared effort, and as an organization, Eurofins is committed to working with the necessary parties to make accessibility for all a reality. For more detailed information on our accessibility policies, plans, and training programs, please contact the NSC Human Resources Department.

AODA Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Policy

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), 2005 was enacted in 2005 with the objective of recognizing the history of discrimination against persons with disabilities in Ontario, to benefit all Ontarians by:

Developing, implementing and enforcing accessibility 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; and
Providing for the involvement of persons with disabilities, of the Government of Ontario and of representatives of industries and of various sectors of the economy in the development of the accessibility standards.

To achieve this, the government has focused on creating accessibility standards in five key areas: customer service, employment, information and communication, built environment, and transportation.

The Customer Service Standard came into force January 1, 2008. In accordance with the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07, this policy addresses the following:

The provision of services to persons with disabilities;
The use of assistive devices;
The use of guide dogs, service animals, and service dogs;
The use of support persons;
Customer feedback;
Training; and
Notice of availability and format of required documents.

This policy is intended to meet the requirements of Accessibility for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07 under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.

The provision of services to persons with disabilities

Eurofins will make every reasonable effort to ensure that its policies, practices and procedures are consistent with the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity by:

Ensuring that all customers and third parties receive the same value and quality service;
Allowing customers with disabilities to do things in their own ways, at their own pace when accessing services as long as this does not present a safety risk to themselves or any Eurofins representative;
Using alternative methods when possible to ensure that customers with disabilities have access to the same services, in the same place, and in a similar manner;
Taking into account individual needs when providing services; and
Communicating in a manner that takes into account the customer’s disability.

Assistive devices

Customer’s own assistive devices(s): Persons with disabilities may use their own assistive devices as required when accessing services provided by Eurofins.

In cases where the assistive device presents a safety concern or where the accessibility might be an issue, other reasonable measures will be used to ensure the access of services. For example, open flames and oxygen tanks cannot be near one other. Therefore, the accommodation of a customer with an oxygen tank may involve ensuring the customer is in a location that would be considered safe for both the customer and the business. Another example, where elevators are not present and where an individual requires assistive devices for the purpose of mobility, service will be provided in a location that meets the needs of the customer.

Assistive devices provided by Eurofins: Wheelchair ramps are available upon request to assist customers in entering the facility and accessing our services.

Guide dogs, service animals, and service dogs

A customer with a disability that is accompanied by a guide dog, service animal or service dog will be allowed access to Eurofins premises unless otherwise excluded by law*, or GMP regulations, where applicable. “No pet” policies in certain areas of the facility do not apply to guide dogs, service animals, and/or service dogs unless a safety concern exists for the customer and the guide dog, service animal or service dog, or Eurofins employees, or unless the presence of the guide dog, service animal or service presents a situation of ‘undue hardship’ on the part of the company.

Exclusion guidelines: If a guide dog, service animal or service dog is excluded by law* or GMP, or presents a safety risk for Eurofins employees, the customer and/or the guide dog, service animal, and/or service dog, Eurofins will offer alternative methods to enable the person with the disability to access service, when possible (i.e., securing the animal in a safe location and offering the guidance of an employee).

Recognizing a Guide Dog, Service Dog and/or Service Animal: If it is not readily apparent that the animal is being used by the customer for reasons relating to his/her disability, Eurofins may request verification from the customer. Verification may include:

A letter from a physician confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons related to the disability;
A valid identification card signed by the Attorney General of Canada; or,
A certificate of training from a recognized guide dog or service animal training school.

Care and Control of the Animal: The customer that is accompanied by a guide dog, service dog and/or service animal is responsible for maintaining care and control of the animal at all times.

Allergies: If a health and safety concern presents itself for example in the form of a severe allergy to the animal, Eurofins will make all reasonable efforts to meet the needs of all individuals.

Support Persons

If a customer with a disability is accompanied by a support person, Eurofins will ensure that both persons are allowed to enter the premises together and that the customer is not prevented from having access to the support person.

There may be times where seating and availability prevent the customer and support person from sitting beside each other. In these situations Eurofins will make every reasonable attempt to resolve the issue.

In situations where confidential information might be discussed, consent will be obtained from the customer, prior to any confidential information being raised.

Feedback Process

Eurofins shall provide customers with disabilities the opportunity to provide feedback on the service. Information about the feedback process will be readily available to all customers and notice of the process will be made available through verbal communication or in written format. Feedback forms along with alternative methods of providing feedback such as verbally (in person or by telephone) or written (hand written, delivered, or email), will be available upon request.

Submitting Feedback: Customers may submit feedback directly to the Human Resources Department, or indirectly through a Eurofins employee. Customers who wish to provide feedback may complete an onsite customer feedback form or can do so verbally to any Eurofins employee.

Customers that provide formal feedback will receive acknowledgement of their feedback, along with any resulting actions based on concerns or complaints that were submitted.

Training

Eurofins will provide training for its employees regarding AODA, Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, and the Ontario Human Rights Code as they pertain to individuals with disabilities. Training will also be provided to individuals who are responsible for developing Eurofins’ policies, and all other persons who provide goods, services or facilities on behalf of Eurofins.

Training will be provided as soon as is reasonably practicable. Training will be provided to all new employees as a part of the onboarding process. Training will also be provided for current employees as changes to Eurofins’ accessibility policies occur and as updates and revisions are made.

Training provisions: As reflected in Ontario Regulation 429/07, regardless of the format, training will cover the following:

A review of the purpose of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005;
The Ontario Human Rights Code as it pertains to people with disabilities;
A review of the requirements of the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07;
Instructions on how to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities;
Instructions on how to interact with people with disabilities who:
- use assistive devices;
- require the assistance of a guide dog, service dog or other service animal; or
- require the use of a support person.
Instructions on how to use equipment or devices that are available at our premises which may help people with disabilities;
Instructions on what to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing your services; and
Eurofins’ policies, procedures and practices pertaining to providing accessible customer service to customers with disabilities.

Training schedule: Eurofins will provide training as soon as practicable. Training will be provided to employees, volunteers, and every new employee as a part of the onboarding process. Revised training will be provided in the event of changes to legislation, procedures and/or practices.

Record of training: Eurofins will keep a record of training that includes the employees who received the training, and the date all necessary documents were reviewed.

Notice of Availability and Format of Documents

Eurofins shall notify customers that the documents related to the Accessibility Standard for Customer Service are available upon request and shall be communicated in a format that takes into account the customer's disability (i.e., larger font, read by an employee). Notification shall be provided through the company web site at www.eurofins.ca, and all information will be kept in a central place in the facility such as front reception as well as with Human Resources.

This policy and its related procedures will be reviewed as required in the event of legislative changes.

Definitions

Customer, for the purpose of the policy, is defined as any person(s) with whom Eurofins has business dealings. This includes, but is not limited to clients, inspectors, suppliers, contractors, and prospective employees.

“Third parties” is not defined in the Act or in the Customer Service Standard. However, as suggested by the Government of Ontario’s publication Guide: Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07, it will likely include suppliers, wholesalers, consultants and any other person, business or organization that services are provided to that do not fall under the “Customer” definition.

Assistive Device is a technical aid, communication device or other instrument that is used to maintain or improve the functional abilities of people with disabilities. Personal assistive devices are typically devices that customers bring with them such as a wheelchair, walker or a personal oxygen tank that might assist in hearing, seeing, communicating, moving, breathing, remembering and/or reading.

Disability as defined by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and the Ontario Human Rights Code, refers to:

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 coordination, 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;
A condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability;
A learning disability or dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language;
A mental disorder; or
An injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.

Guide Dog is a highly-trained working dog that has been trained at one of the facilities listed in the Ontario Regulation 58 under the Blind Persons’ Rights Act, to provide mobility, safety, and increased independence for people who are blind.

Service Animal as reflected in Ontario Regulation 429/07 is a service animal for a person with a disability if:

It is readily apparent that the animal is used by the person for reasons relating to his/her disability; or
If the person provides a letter from a physician confirming that the person requires the animal for reasons relating to the disability.

Service Dog as reflected in the Health Protection and promotion Act, Ontario Regulation 562 a dog other than a guide dog for the blind is a service dog if:

It is readily apparent to an average person that the dog functions as a service dog for a person with a medical disability; or
The person who requires the dog can provide on request a letter from a physician confirming that the person requires a service dog.

Support Person as reflected in Ontario Regulation 429/07, a support person means, in relation to a person with a disability, another person who accompanies him/her in order to help with communication, mobility, personal care, medical needs, or access to goods and services.

* Applicable laws (May not necessarily apply to Eurofins.):

Food Safety and Quality Act 2001, Ontario Regulation 31/05: Animals not intended for slaughter or to be euthanized are not allowed in any area or room of a meat plant. It also makes an exception for service dogs to allow them in those areas of a meat plant where food is served, sold or offered for sale to customers and in those areas that do not contain animals or animal parts and are not used for the receiving, processing, packaging, labelling, shipping, handling or storing of animals or parts of animals.

The Health Protection and Promotion Act, Ontario Regulation 562 Section 60, normally does not allow animals in places where food is manufactured, prepared, processed, handled, served, displayed, stored, sold or offered for sale. It does allow guide dogs and service dogs to go into places where food is served, sold or offered for sale. However, other types of service animals are not included in this exception.

Dog Owners' Liability Act, Ontario: If there is a conflict between a provision of this Act or of a regulation under this or any other Act relating to banned breeds (such as pit bulls) and a provision of a by-law passed by a municipality relating to these breeds, the provision that is more restrictive in relation to controls or bans on these breeds prevails.

AODA Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Emergency Response Plan

Intent

Eurofins is committed to supporting the welfare of its employees and visitors on the premises. The purpose of this Emergency Response Plan is to ensure human safety, minimize damage to property, and assure rapid and responsive communication to all parties involved. This plan has been created to address, in a coordinated and systematic manner, all types of emergencies affecting the Company.

This plan will establish processes and procedures for appropriate responses to major emergencies, and assign roles and responsibilities for the implementation and execution of the plan in the event of an emergency or catastrophe. The guidelines shown in this plan are intended to keep employees prepared should Eurofins premises and/or facilities become unsafe due to calamity.

For the purposes of this plan, Eurofins defines emergency as an instance, or combination of instances, of unsafe conditions that pose a threat to people or property, and include: instances of fire and/or smoke; natural disaster/severe weather; chemical, biological or radiological incidents; and structural failures.

This policy is in compliance with Ontario Regulation 191/11 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.

Guidelines

In general, Eurofins employees must report an emergency event immediately to a member of management or other appropriate authority.

Once the emergency has been ascertained, response/assessment teams will be the first to respond to the incident. They will assess the severity of the emergency and communicate immediately with assigned groups as appropriate. Response/assessment teams are composed of at least one person per department, typically the supervisor or designate, to coordinate and instruct co-workers. These teams will coordinate emergency and/or evacuation efforts within their areas of responsibility.

Not all emergencies will require the same level of response. Appropriate responses will be dictated by the severity of the event and its effect on the health and safety of employees, visitors, and property. Only senior management or an appointed designee has the authority to declare a state of emergency for Eurofins and can activate this plan.

Responsibilities in an emergency are delegated amongst various response/assessment team members.

Fire and/or Smoke

This includes any conflagration (fire) of combustible materials at causing danger of burns from fire or suffocation/choking from smoke inhalation. This can also include fires nearby where there is a clear danger of the fire spreading or causing the air to become un-breathable due to smoke.

Rescue anyone in immediate danger.
Alert employees of the fire and its location. Activate the nearest fire alarm by pulling down on the lever at the blue pull stations. Contact the local fire department by calling 911 and follow any and all instructions. Assign someone to guide the response personnel directly to the fire.
Contain the fire if it is relatively safe to do so. Close all doors, fire doors, and windows near the fire. Shut off all fans, ventilators, and air conditioners.
Extinguish the fire if it is small. Obtain the nearest fire extinguisher and pull out the safety pin. Aim the fire extinguisher nozzle low, at the base of the fire, depress the trigger, and move nozzle move slowly upward with a sweeping motion.

Do not aim nozzle at the middle or the top of the flames.
If fire cannot be extinguished, evacuate the building immediately.
Keep low to the floor to avoid inhaling smoke.

If the fire cannot be safely extinguished using available fire extinguishers, evacuate the premises immediately using the nearest and safest exit.

Close all doors behind you as you leave.

Report to the designated Common Meeting Area on the grass area across from the facility.

Immediately report any employee(s), customer (s), visitor(s), contractor(s) or individual(s) who have remained in the building or refused to leave.

Do not return until it has been declared safe to do so by the Fire Department.

If you are unable to leave your work station, or have returned to it due to fire or heavy smoke:

Close all doors to prevent the entry of smoke and fire.
Dial 911 to notify the authorities and inform them of who and where you are.
Signal to the Fire Fighters, by any means possible, to draw attention to you.
If possible, seal all cracks where smoke can get in.
Crouch low to the floor if smoke begins to enter your area.
Move to the nearest protected location in the room or area.
Wait to be rescued and remain calm.
Do not leave the area.
Do not panic or jump.
Listen for instructions or information which may be given by authorized personnel.

Natural Disaster or Severe Weather

This is a broad term meaning any emergency caused by inclement weather conditions or tectonic activity. Natural disasters include tornados, floods, earthquakes, mudslides, hurricanes, lightning strikes, avalanches, blizzards, ice storms, severe thunderstorms, and so on. In some cases, natural disaster may also include excessive periods of intensely cold weather, or excessive periods of intensely hot and/or humid weather.

Account for all employees and visitors, ensuring that everyone is inside the facility. Close all windows and close all curtains and/or blinds.
Close all windows, curtains and blinds and instruct all employees and visitors to move away from windows.
If necessary, gather employees and visitors into an enclosed area.
Listen to all weather reports for updates. Do not leave the enclosed area until the weather warning has been lifted.
Stay calm. Encourage others to stay calm also.
Have portable radios available, along with extra batteries.
Be prepared for isolation at the premises. Ensure that emergency equipment and supplies are available, or can be readily obtained.

Emergency Survival Kits

As a best practice, emergency survival kits should include enough supplies for employees, volunteers, visitors, customers and guests to survive for 72 hours.

Important items to include in the kit are:

Candles;
Matches sealed in a water proof bag;
Fire retardant blankets;
Flashlight(s);
Ample batteries;
Telephone(s) that will work in a power outage;
A well-stocked first aid kit;
Non-perishable food;
Manual can opener;
Whistle to serve as an extra communication device;
Cases of bottled of water.

Other items can include spare clothes, personal hygiene items, pain and allergy relief pills and assistive devices such as asthma inhalers, canes and diabetic medication.

Chemical, Biological, or Radiological

This may include a release of toxic chemicals or other dangerous agents within the vicinity of Eurofins, including natural gas leaks; the release of harmful bacteria, viruses, or other biological dangers; release of or exposure to radioactive materials.

Call 911 and report the situation and follow any instructions given.
Notify managers and Human Resources immediately.
Commence evacuation procedures.

Structural Failure

This term encompasses any damage to Eurofins property or premises that causes unsafe conditions due to structural failure. Failures or pending failures include (but are not limited to) bomb threats, collapsed walls, ceilings, or foundations, burst water mains, electrical power outages, and so on.

The purpose of this procedure is to inform employees or visitors of precautions to be taken in the event of a structural failure.

In the event of a power outage, gather flashlights and other needed supplies. Check on all employees and visitors to ensure their safety. Ensure all backup or emergency lighting is fully operational. If the power outage is prolonged, consult with managers to consider dismissing employees for the remainder of the day.
In the case of water, heat, or other utility disruptions, all attempts will be made to determine the cause of the disruption and the probable length of shutdown. Where required, the local utility provider shall be contacted to assess and resolve the situation. If the shutdown is prolonged, consult with management to consider dismissing employees for the day.

Employee/Visitor Evacuation Procedure

In the event that Eurofins declares that an evacuation of the premises is necessary in response to an emergency situation, employees/visitors are required to follow the steps below:

Stop working and shut down any equipment in use;
Proceed to posted emergency exit, following posted evacuation route(s);
Use stairwells instead of elevators;
Touch doorknobs/door handles carefully to check for heat; and
Proceed to designated meeting area (unless otherwise instructed).

Bomb Threats

In the unlikely event of a bomb threat, it is impossible to discern valid threats from hoaxes. Therefore, all threats will be treated as real in order to protect lives and property, and the premises shall be evacuated immediately.

Missing Employee/Visitor Procedure

Employees will be directed by the response/assessment team member to systematically search the premises, both inside and outside (if safe to do so), including rooms, bathrooms, offices, and other areas.
Should a search of the premises prove unsuccessful, the response/assessment team member shall notify local law enforcement by calling 911. Give a description of the missing person, or a photograph (if available). The authorities will assume control of the search from this point.
The family and/or responsible party of the missing person shall also be notified. Explain what is being done to find the missing person and that the local law enforcement has been notified as well.
All previously contacted persons and law enforcement shall be notified if the missing person turns up due to search, or of their own accord.

Alternative Formats

Eurofins is dedicated to ensuring the health and safety of all of our employees, volunteers, visitors, customers and guests. As such, we will provide our Emergency Response Plan in a format that takes into consideration individual needs.

It is critical that all of our employees, volunteers, visitors, customers and guests know and understand our Emergency Response Plan, if the information provided to you is unclear or is in a format that prevents you from fully knowing and understanding our process, please contact the Human Resources department as soon as possible.

Eurofins will work with the individual, as soon as practicable, to identify solutions and options that take into consideration their needs. Alternative options include, but are not limited to:

Enlarged text;
Braille format;
Communication support either in person or over the phone;
Documents provided via email.

If requested, and upon approval by the individual, the individual Emergency Response and Fire Evacuation Plan shall be shared with the person designated to provide assistance to the individual.

Customer Service Feedback Form

Thank you for visiting a Eurofins Company. We value all stakeholders and strive to manage all needs and requirements. Information on the Feedback Form can be delivered in alternative methods such as verbally (in person or by telephone) or written (hand written, delivered via mail, or by email). Eurofins will strive to accommodate requests for alternative formats.

Please tell us about your visit:

Date of visit: ________________________________

Type of visit (Business opportunity, Visit by Eurofins associate, audit, client visit, supplier or contractor visit, etc.): ________________________________

Were you satisfied with the service provided to you?

q Yes

q No

q Somewhat

Comments

Was our service provided to you in an accessible manner?

q Yes

q No

q Somewhat

Comments

Did you experience any problems accessing our services?

q Yes

q No

q Somewhat

Comments

Do you feel there were ways in which we could have been more accommodating?

q Yes

q No

q Somewhat

Comments

Contact Information (optional):

Name: _______________________________________

Phone Number: ________________________________

Email: ______________________________

AODA Documents Available Notification

Eurofins has created policies and procedures to meet the required Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07 under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. 2005.

Our Accessibility policies are available for review in a number of formats. Should you wish access to these documents, please notify the NSC Human Resources Department:

E-Mail: CA_Education@nsc.eurofinsca.com

Mail: 200-1120 Finch Ave. West, North York, ON M3J 3H7

AODA Employment Standards Policy

In June 2011, the Ontario government enacted the Integrated Accessibility Regulation (IAR) under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The Regulation gave force of law to four new standards to address barriers facing persons with disabilities in the areas of employment, information and communications, design of public spaces, and transportation. Although this Regulation came into force in June 2011, specific requirements under the various standards will be phased in between 2012 and 2025.

Based on the Employment Standard, Eurofins will proactively identify, remove, and prevent barriers hindering full participation in employment of persons with disabilities. In the event where barriers cannot be removed proactively, Eurofins will establish individual accommodation plans.

Eurofins is committed to:

Preventing, identifying, and removing barriers throughout the entire employment cycle;
Designing inclusive employment systems and processes;
Supporting persons with disabilities from recruitment through hiring;
Establishing individual accommodation plans;
Respecting the privacy of information related to accommodation;
Providing information in accessible formats and methods (include but not limited to large print, recorded audio and electronic formats, braille and other formats usable by persons with disabilities);
Providing disability awareness training to employees.

Eurofins is committed to complying with the accessibility employment standards under the AODA, as well as meeting all obligations under the Human Rights Code and the Workplace Safety Insurance Act.

General Requirements

General requirements that apply across all of the four (4) standards, Information and Communications, Employment, Transportation (not applicable), and Design of Public Spaces, are outlined as follows:

Establishment of Accessibility Policies and Plans

Eurofins will develop, implement and maintain policies governing how it will achieve accessibility through these requirements.

Eurofins will include a statement of its commitment to meeting the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities in a timely manner in its policies. These documents will be made publicly available in an accessible format, upon request.

Eurofins will establish, implement, maintain and document a multi-year accessibility plan outlining its strategy to prevent and remove barriers and meet its requirements under the IASR.

Accessibility plans will be made available in an accessible format, upon request.

Eurofins will review and update its accessibility plan once every five (5) years, or more frequently, if needed, and will establish, review and update the accessibility plans in consultation with persons with disabilities or an advisory committee.

Procuring or Acquiring Goods and Services, or Facilities

Eurofins will incorporate accessibility criteria and features when procuring or acquiring goods, services or facilities. The only exception is in cases where it is impracticable to do so.

Training Requirements

Eurofins will provide training for all employees regarding the Integrated Accessibility Standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code as they pertain to individuals with disabilities.

Training will be provided to new employees as part of the onboarding process, and training will be provided for current employees as changes to Eurofins’ accessibility policies occur.

Records

Eurofins will maintain records on the training provided, when it was provided, all test scores, and the number of employees that were trained.

Recruitment, Assessment, Selection and Employment Cycle

Eurofins will notify employees and the public about the availability of accommodation for job applicants who have disabilities. This may be communicated through job postings, through the Company web site, or directly to the candidate. Accommodation might include application forms in an alternative format or adjustments to the recruitment process such as arrangements during the interview or correspondence in a different format.

Applicants will be informed that these accommodations are available, upon request, for the interview process and for other candidate selection methods. Eurofins will notify job candidates when they have been individually selected to participate in an assessment or selection process that accommodations are available upon request in relation to the materials or processes to be used.

Where an accommodation is requested, Eurofins will consult with the applicant and provide or arrange for suitable accommodation in a manner that takes into account the applicant’s accessibility needs due to disability. Eurofins will make the final decision regarding which accommodation to be provided.

During the offer stage, successful applicants will be made aware of Eurofins’ policies and supports for accommodating people with disabilities, including, but not limited to, job accommodations that take into account an employee’s accessibility needs due to disability. Eurofins will then notify employees again, as soon as practicable, after they commence their employment. Eurofins will strive to provide several opportunities to discuss any required accommodations.

Eurofins will inform all current employees of its policies used to support and accommodate employees with disabilities, including, but not limited to, job accommodations that take into account an employee’s accessibility needs due to disability.

During employment

As soon as practicable after employment begins, Eurofins will inform all employees of company policies used to support employees with disabilities, including, but not limited to, policies on the provision of job accommodations that take into account an employee’s accessibility needs due to disability.

Update employees whenever there is a change to existing policies on the provision of job accommodations that take into account an employee’s accessibility needs due to disability

Where an employee with a disability so requests it, Eurofins will consult with the employee to provide or arrange for accessible formats and communication supports for information that is needed in order to perform the employee’s job, and information that is generally available to employees in the workplace

Provide workplace emergency response information to the person designated to provide assistance to the employee with a disability (if the employee requires assistance and if the employee consents)

Review the individualized workplace emergency response information when an employee moves to a different location within the organization, when reviewing an employee’s an employee’s overall accommodation needs or plans, and at any time Eurofins typically undergoes a review of the general company emergency response policies

Make individual accommodation plans that, if requested, include any information regarding accessible formats and communications supports available, include individualized workplace emergency response information, and identify any other accommodation that is to be provided

Prepare and have in place a written process for the development of documented individual accommodation plans for employees with disabilities

Prepare written job descriptions to help identify the essential duties of a position that outline the special skills, knowledge and abilities required to carry out the essential duties That considers the following factors:

Whether the reason the position exists is to perform that function
The number of other employees available to perform the function or among whom the performance of the function can be distributed
Whether the function is highly specialized and the incumbent is hired for the degree of expertise or skill required to perform the function

Accessible Formats and Communication Supports for Employees

If an employee with a disability requests it, Eurofins will provide or arrange for the provision of accessible formats and communication supports for the following:

Information needed in order to perform his/her job; and
Information that is generally available to all employees in the workplace.

Eurofins will consult with the employee making the request to determine the best way to provide the accessible format or communication support. Eurofins is committed to ensuring that employees feel they can disclose information and ask for assistance.

Accessible formats and communication supports include but are not limited to captioning, alternative and augmentative communication supports, plain language, sign language and other supports that facilitate effective communications

Workplace Emergency Response Information

Where required, Eurofins will create individual workplace emergency response information for employees with disabilities. This information will take into account the unique challenges created by the individual’s disability and the physical nature of the workplace, and will be created in consultation with the employee. If an employee who receives individualized workplace emergency response information requires assistance, with the employee’s consent, Eurofins will provide the workplace emergency response information to the person designated by the company to provide assistance to the employee.

This information will be reviewed when:

The employee moves to a different physical location in the organization;
The employee’s overall accommodation needs or plans are reviewed; and/or
Eurofins reviews general emergency response policies.

Documented Individual Accommodation Plans

Eurofins has developed and has in place a written processes for the development of documenting individual accommodation plans for employees with disabilities. The process for the development of these accommodation plans should include specific elements, including:

The manner in which an employee requesting accommodation can participate in the development of the individual accommodation plan;
The means by which the employee is assessed on an individual basis;
The ways that an employee can request an evaluation by an outside medical or other expert, or other experts (at the employer’s expense) to determine if accommodation can be achieved, or how it can be achieved;
The steps taken to protect the privacy of the employee’s personal information;
The frequency with which the individual accommodation plan should be reviewed or updated and how it should be done; and
The manner in which the reasons for denial will be provided to the employee, if an individual accommodation plan is denied;
The means of providing the accommodation plan in an accessible format, based on the employee’s accessibility needs.

Individual accommodation plans shall, if requested, include any information regarding accessible formats and communication supports provided. If it is required, it shall include individualized workplace emergency response information and any other identified accommodations to be provided.

Performance Management

Eurofins will consider the accessibility needs of employees with disabilities, as well as individual accommodation plans, when implementing performance management processes, or when offering career development or advancement opportunities.

Eurofins will use its performance management processes and ensure that they can be, and are, used in a way that is consistent with employees’ individual accommodation needs or plans. Eurofins shall retain and promote staff using the same criteria for all employees. Eurofins will also provide information in accessible formats and will consider all options in looking for ways to support employees.

Individual accommodation plans will be consulted, as required.

Career Development and Advancement

Eurofins provides career development and advancement opportunities to its employees and will take into account the accessibility needs of its employees with disabilities, as well as any individual accommodation plans when providing career development and advancement to its employees with disabilities.

Eurofins will make sure that employees with disabilities receive information in a way that is consistent with their individual accommodation needs or plans. All employees have the same opportunity for learning and personal development. All employees shall be made aware of opportunities for transfers and promotions, and all efforts shall be made to avoid informal contacts to avoid excluding anyone who might be interested in an opportunity. When an employee who has individual accommodation needs or an accommodation plan takes on new job responsibilities, Eurofins will provide training on the essential job duties, which will take into account the employee’s accommodation needs or plan.

Redeployment

In the event of redeployment, Eurofins shall take into account the accessibility needs of its employees with disabilities, as well as individual accommodation plans, when redeploying employees with disabilities.

Eurofins’ procedure for moving an employee to another job where the existing position has ended shall:

Apply to employees with disabilities
Take individual accommodation needs or plans into account
Include consultation with the employee, upon request.

Return to Work

Eurofins will develop and implement return to work processes for employees who are absent from work due to a disability and require disability-related accommodation(s) in order to return to work.

The return to work process will outline the steps Eurofins will take to facilitate the employee’s return to work and shall use documented individual accommodation plans (as described in section 28 of the regulation).

Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure that it is reflective of Eurofins’ current practices as well as complaint with legislative requirements.

AODA Information & Communications Policy

The standard for information and communications focuses on accessible information and communications relating to the provision of goods and services. The definition of “information and communication” is very broad and can include such things as websites, brochures, flyers, invoices, order forms, feedback forms, complaint forms, telephone calls, marketing materials, etc. The main goal of the standard is to promote inclusive design of information and communication platforms and to specify requirements to prevent and remove barriers to persons with disabilities when creating, conveying, distributing, procuring and receiving information and communicating to and from the organization.

Eurofins shall notify the public about the availability of accessible formats and communication supports. In the event a person with a disability makes a request for information and communication in an accessible format or using a communication support, Eurofins will consult with the person making the request in determining the suitability of an accessible format or communication support. The final determination as to which accessible format or communication support to use will rest with the Company.

Eurofins will ensure there exist processes for receiving and responding to feedback, and that these processes are accessible for persons with disabilities by providing or arranging for the provision of accessible formats and communications supports, upon request.

In accordance with the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, Ontario Regulation 429/07, Eurofins will make the availability of accessible feedback formats publicly known.

Accessible Formats and Communication Supports for Employees

Unless deemed unconvertible, Eurofins will provide or arrange for the provision of accessible formats and communication supports for persons with disabilities, upon request. Accessible formats and communication supports will be provided in a timely manner and at no additional cost to the individual.

Accessible formats may include, but are not limited to, large print, recorded audio and electronic formats, braille and other formats used by persons with disabilities. Communication supports include, but are not limited to, captioning, alternative and augmentative communication supports, plain language sign language and other supports that facilitate effective communications.

Eurofins recognizes the right to accessibility extends to accessing electronic or other documents in formats that work correctly with assistive technologies (communication support such as special computer hardware and software designed to help those with accessibility challenges).

Eurofins will take into account the person’s accessibility needs when customizing individual requests and shall consult with the individual making the request to ensure suitability.

Eurofins will make the availability of accessible formats and communication supports publicly known.

Accessible Websites and Web Content

Eurofins Canada Careers website and all web content under direct control from Ontario conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 in accordance with the schedule set out in the IASR and consultation with the Ministry of Seniors and Accessibility. Eurofins websites controlled from outside of Canada will be converted where possible according to Corporate guidelines.

Exceptions

The Information and Communications Standard does not apply to the following:

Products and product labels;
Unconvertible information or communications; or
Information that the organization does not control either directly or indirectly through a contractual relationship.

Unconvertible Information or Communications

If it is determined, in consultation with the requesting party, that information or communications are unconvertible, Eurofins will ensure that the individual who made the request is provided with an explanation and a summary of the information.

Eurofins will classify information or communications as unconvertible where:

It is not technically practicable to convert; or
The technology required to make the conversion is not readily available.

If Eurofins determines that information or communications are unconvertible, the Company will provide the person requesting the information or communication with:

An explanation as to why the information or communications are unconvertible; and
A summary of the unconvertible information or communications.

AODA Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

Statement of Commitment

Eurofins believes in equal opportunity and is committed to providing a barrier-free environment that allows all people to maintain their independence and dignity. As an organization, we respect and uphold the requirements set forth under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005) and its associated Regulations and strive to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in a timely and effective manner.

Intent

This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (the “Plan”) outlines the policies and actions that Eurofins will put in place to improve opportunities for people with disabilities in accordance with the requirements communicated under the Integrated Accessibility Standards, Ontario Regulation 191/11.

Plan

This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan is part of AODA’s Integrated Accessibility Regulations (IAR). It outlines the Eurofins’ strategy to prevent and remove barriers to accessibility and describes the Eurofins’ progressive approach to meeting or exceeding applicable legal and regulatory requirements, including those set out in human rights and accessibility-related legislation. This Plan is continually developing and shall be updated at least every five years, as Eurofins’ accessibility strategy evolves.

Eurofins welcomes feedback in relation to this Plan, in the format most convenient to the provider of feedback. Our Accessibility policies, Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, and Feedback Form and document request procedure are available upon request.

For any of the publicly provided documents, alternative formats or communication supports are available upon request. Such requests should be directed to the Eurofins NSC Human Resources Department, by calling 416-739-5406, or in writing to CA_Education@nsc.eurofinsca.com, or Eurofins NSC Canada – HR Department, 1120 Finch Ave. West. Suite 200, North York, ON M3J 3H7.

General Requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Establishment of Accessibility Policies				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2014
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Policy in effect along with corresponding documents such as Statement of Commitment, and Customer Service Feedback Form · All current policies and procedures will be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect current practices and accessibility strategy of Eurofins. · Our Accessible Standards for Customer Service and IASR Policies, as well as Feedback Form and document request procedure, are available upon request.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Training on IASR and the Human Rights Code				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2015
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Eurofins shall ensure that training is delivered to all associates, volunteers and those who provide services on Eurofins’ behalf on the standards set by provincial legislation regarding accessibility as well as any aspect of local human rights legislation relating to persons with disabilities. · All employees, including those who participate in the development of policies, and all other persons who provide services on behalf of the organization have completed required training on the requirements of the standards and on the Human Rights Code as it pertains to persons with disabilities. · The training includes the purpose of standards regarding accessibility set by provincial legislation and related requirements, as well as how to communicate, interact, and support persons with disabilities in ways that take the person’s disability into account. · All new employees who commence employment with Eurofins are required to complete training as part of the company’s onboarding program, as well as whenever Eurofins alters its policies and practices regarding accessibility. · Appropriate training materials developed and implemented, all training to be completed as online e-learning modules. · Plan and schedule created for periodic refresh training to ensure ongoing awareness and understanding. · Records kept and maintained of the training provided, including the dates that the training was provided and the number of individuals to whom it was provided.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements

Information and Communications Standard
Accessibility Requirement:	Feedback Process				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2015
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· AODA Information and Communications Standard Policy in effect as of Jan. 1, 2016. · Plan is in place to ensure process for receiving and responding to feedback are accessible, by providing or arranging for the provision of accessible formats, and communication supports, upon request. · Feedback may be accepted by contacting Eurofins NSC Human Resources Department, by calling 416-739-5406, or in writing to CA_Education@nsc.eurofinsca.com, or Eurofins NSC Canada – HR Department, 1120 Finch Ave. West. Suite 200, North York, ON M3J 3H7.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Accessible Formats and Communication Supports				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· AODA Information and Communications Standard Policy in effect as of Jan. 1, 2016. · Upon request, Eurofins will provide or arrange for the provision of accessible formats and communication supports for persons with disabilities, in a timely manner and at no extra cost. · If required, Eurofins shall retain a 3^rd party service provider to convert communications and documents to alternate formats, and inform all colleagues who may receive or respond to feedback with information as to how to obtain alternate formats or communication supports from the service provider. · Requesting persons will be consulted as to the suitability of an accessible format or communication support. · The public will be notified about the availability of accessible formats and communication supports by a notification on www.eurofins.ca and by at least one other method.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Emergency Procedures, Plans or Public Safety Information				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2012
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Standard Emergency Response Plan in effect as of Jan. 1, 2016. · Emergency procedures and public emergency safety information (if applicable) that is prepared by Eurofins and made available to the public is made available in accessible format or with appropriate communication supports, as soon as practicable, upon request. · Alternative emergency preparedness plans are created and updated, as required and as soon as practicable, for associates who Eurofins is aware are unable to follow the standard emergency plan as a result of a permanent or temporary disability. The associate and, if the associate consents, any designated assistant(s) are provided with the alternative emergency preparedness plan. · Alternative emergency preparedness plans are retained with the standard emergency plan in the associate’s departmental location.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Accessible Websites and Web Content				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2014
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Eurofins’ Ontario-controlled websites and web content currently conform to Level A of the WCAG 2.0 Guidelines. · Launch of new Eurofins Career Pages on www.eurofins.ca currently complies with Level AA of the WCAG 2.0 Guidelines.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	All Websites and Web Content				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2021
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Eurofins’ website and web content currently conforms to Level A of the WCAG 2.0 Guidelines. · Launch of new Eurofins Career Pages on www.eurofins.ca currently complies with Level AA of the WCAG 2.0 Guidelines. · Eurofins will ensure that its full website and all content will comply with WCAG 2.0 Level AA by the proposed date. · Communication with Eurofins corporate regarding WCAG 2.0 Level AA guideline in regards to future compliance of web site.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Expected to be in compliance for proposed deadline

Employment Standards
Accessibility Requirement:	Recruitment, Assessment and Selection Processes Notice to Successful Applicants				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· AODA Employment Standards Policy in effect as of Jan. 1, 2016. · Review and, as necessary, modify existing recruitment, assessment, and selection procedures and processes. · All job applicants and the public notified that accommodation is available during the recruitment process on request, by specifying this information in job postings and on the careers section of the company website, as well as posting company policies on web site. · Availability of accommodation is specified for applicants with disabilities in recruitment-related materials and during scheduling of interviews and assessments. · If an applicant requests accommodation, the Company will consult with the applicant and arrange for the provision of suitable accommodation that takes into account the applicant’s needs due to disability. · When making offers of employment, the successful applicant will be notified of Eurofins’ policies for accommodating colleagues with disabilities. · Appropriate training will be provided to any associates responsible for recruitment, assessment, selection, and on-boarding to ensure these planned actions are delivered, and accommodation requests are fulfilled in an effective and timely manner.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Informing Employees of Supports				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· All potential employees will be provided access to Eurofins’ accessibility policies with offer of employment. · Existing orientation and on-boarding processes will be reviewed and modified as need to ensure new associates are provided information about Eurofins’ accessibility policies as soon as practicable after employment commences. · Procedure developed which advises associates whenever there is a change to existing policies on the provision of workplace accommodations.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Documented individual accommodation plans				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Accommodation Plan Form in effect as of Jan. 1, 2016. · Procedures developed and integrated for documenting and updating, as required, documented individual accommodation plans, which will provide for the method(s) by which requesting associates will be assessed and represented, how they can participate in the plan’s development, and the method by which a copy of the plan will be provided to the associate in a format that takes his or her accessibility needs into account. · Appropriate training will be provided to managers and associates responsible for supporting the individualized accommodation plan process, and a training schedule that will ensure the efficacy of the plan on a continuing basis.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Return to work from Disability-Related Leaves process				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Existing return to work processes will be reviewed and documented for associates who have been absent from work due to a disability and require accommodation in order to return to work. · Documented individual accommodation plans will comprise part of the return to work process. · Appropriate training will be provided to managers and other associates responsible for supporting the return to work process for associates who require such accommodation, and an appropriate training schedule that will ensure effective execution of the return to work process on a continuous basis.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements
Accessibility Requirement:	Performance management, Career development and advancement, Redeployment				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2016
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Existing performance management, career development and redeployment processes will be reviewed and modified as necessary to ensure that the accessibility needs and individual accommodation plans of associates with disabilities are taken into account. · Appropriate training will be provided to managers and other associates responsible for supporting or impacting performance management, career development and advancement, and redeployment processes, and an applicable training schedule that will ensure compliance with the processes on a continuous basis.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources	Results:	Compliant with all current legislative requirements

Design of Public Spaces (Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment)
Accessibility Requirement:	Make exterior paths of travel accessible				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2017
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· As soon as practicable, accessibility will be integrated into new or redeveloped public spaces in accordance with the criteria established by Ontario’s Integrated Accessibility Standards. · Currently, one Eurofins business has a portable ramp which can be set up in the event a person with a disability requires this to enter the facility. · Ramps will have to be installed in areas where there is a curb in the walkway to the entrances. · Outdoor sidewalks and walkways, including any associated ramps, will have a surface that is firm and stable.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources working with BU Leaders and respective property management companies	Results:	Eurofins businesses not defined as “Public Spaces”; where existing structure allows, measures have been taken to improve accessibility of facilities.
Accessibility Requirement:	Make parking accessible (off-street parking only)				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2017
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Off-street parking will include signed parking spaces and access aisles for persons with disabilities, including van accessible spaces
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources working with BU Leaders and respective property management companies	Results:	Eurofins businesses not defined as “Public Spaces”; where existing structure allows, measures have been taken to improve accessibility of facilities.
Accessibility Requirement:	Make waiting areas and main reception accessible				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2017
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Currently, one Eurofins company has a portable ramp which can be set up in the event a person with a disability requires this to enter the facility to access the front reception and waiting area. · Waiting area shall include space in which a person using a mobility aid can wait
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources working with BU Leaders and respective property management companies	Results:	Eurofins businesses not defined as “Public Spaces”; where existing structure allows, measures have been taken to improve accessibility of facilities.
Accessibility Requirement:	Maintain the accessible parts of our public spaces				Compliance Deadline:	Jan. 1, 2017
Plan to Meet Requirements:		· Develop and implement procedures for preventative and emergency maintenance of the accessible elements, as well as how to deal with temporary disruptions when accessible elements are not in working order.
Responsible Authority:		NSC Human Resources working with BU Leaders and respective property management companies	Results:	Eurofins businesses not defined as “Public Spaces”; where existing structure allows, measures have been taken to improve accessibility of facilities.

Review and Update

This document was originally created December 2014 and shall be reviewed and updated at least every five (5) years, or more frequently if necessary. Eurofins intends to review and update this plan annually in order to maintain compliance with all legislated requirements in accordance with each requirement’s proposed deadline and is committed to filing all Accessibility Compliance Reports by each established deadline.