How can AAACT help you?

The Accessibility, Accommodation and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) program supports Government of Canada (GC) employees and managers by identifying accessibility barriers and recommending reasonable and effective solutions.

AAACT supports GC employees through the following service areas:

• Individual workplace solutions and accommodation
• Inclusive design and digital accessibility
• Accessibility training and workshops

Individual workplace solutions and accommodation

We work with employees and managers to create barrier-free workplaces. Through personalized support, we recommend tailored accommodation such as adaptive technology, workplace adjustments and skills development. The goal is simple: to ensure employees have the right tools and supports to do their job with confidence and effectiveness. We serve both short- and long-term employees.

Step 1: Initial contact

Email us at aaact-aatia@ssc-spc.gc.ca. Please include:

• a brief overview of your job responsibilities and working conditions
• a description of the barriers faced in the workplace
• the tasks that are affected by these barriers
• any tools or supports that have been tried or are currently in use
• whether you have a GC Workplace Accessibility Passport 

Step 2: Initial conversation

The initial conversation helps us better understand your needs and workplace barriers. In some situations, an appointment with an Adaptive Technology Expert may immediately be scheduled to assess proper supports and solutions.

You can invite any support person(s) to the initial conversation or any future meetings. Your manager should be involved in the process to maintain an open and collaborative dialogue about your accommodation solutions. 

The information you share with AAACT is confidential.

There is no official GC-wide approved list of adaptive technology or support measures. AAACT draws from a wide inventory of software packages and technical aids, as well as extensive knowledge of support measures used in the GC.

Step 3: Recommendations

We may recommend:

• an exploratory session with an Adaptive Technology Expert to discuss solutions, such as short-term equipment loans, existing embedded solutions, software add-ons, support measures or skills development
• a case conference for complex barriers requiring a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach

AAACT’s Lending Library offers fast-tracked loans of equipment to employees with disabilities and employees experiencing temporary or occasional barriers as a result of illness, injury or episodic conditions. 

Step 4: Identifying practical solutions

AAACT recommends solutions based on your situation, tasks and work environment. Together, we may explore many options before recommending the most appropriate and reasonable ones.

Important note: The loan of equipment through AAACT’s Lending Library requires the approval of the appropriate departmental authority (Section 32/34). 

If AAACT lends you equipment, your organization can:

• return the item(s) to the Lending Library and procure the item(s) for the employee
• replenish the item(s) loaned by procuring the same or equivalent items(s) for the Lending Library

Inclusive design and digital accessibility

AAACT works with GC organizations to ensure accessibility is built into information and communication technology (ICT) systems from the start. We help organizations:

• test ICT systems for compliance with accessibility standards
• procure accessible ICT solutions
• provide advice on digital accessibility
• conduct usability testing with people with disabilities

Accessibility training and workshops

AAACT offers several information sessions and workshops. Visit Attend a workshop about accessibility.