1. Statement of Commitment
Saugeen Golf Club is committed to providing an inclusive, welcoming, and barrier-free environment for all members, guests, employees, and visitors.
In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), SGC will identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility across all operations, facilities, and services.
2. Legislative Framework
This plan aligns with:
- AODA (2005) – Goal of a fully accessible Ontario by 2026
- Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR) – Covers:
- Customer Service
- Information & Communication
- Employment
- Design of Public Spaces Standard (O. Reg. 413/12) – Outdoor spaces, parking, paths
- Ontario Building Code (Barrier-Free Design) – Indoor accessibility (washrooms, entrances)
3. Scope of the Plan
This plan applies to all SGC operations, including:
- Golf course (tees, paths, practice areas)
- Clubhouse (pro shop, dining, patio, locker rooms)
- Parking & outdoor access
- Events & tournaments
- Employment practices
- Digital platforms (website, booking systems)
4. Accessibility Objectives & Actions 4.1 Customer Service
Goal: Deliver accessible, respectful service to all patrons.
Actions:
- Train all staff annually on AODA customer service standards
- Allow assistive devices, service animals, and support persons
- Provide clear communication options (verbal, written, digital)
- Establish feedback process (email, in-person, online form)
4.2 Built Environment (Clubhouse & Grounds) Clubhouse
- Barrier-free entrances (ramps, power doors)
- Accessible washrooms with:
- Grab bars
- Turning space
- Proper signage
- Accessible service counters and seating areas
- Visual fire alarms where applicable
- Outdoor Spaces (Golf Course & Grounds)
- Accessible parking spaces near clubhouse and first tee
- Firm, stable, slip-resistant walking paths
- Minimum path widths (approx. 1500 mm where feasible)
- Gradual slopes and ramps for elevation changes
- Accessible patio dining areas (tables, circulation space)
4.3 Golf-Specific Accessibility Enhancements
- Accessible golf carts (single-rider adaptive carts)
- Tee options suitable for varying mobility levels
- Clearly marked drop-off points near tees and greens
- Practice areas with accessible mats and pathways
- Seating/rest areas throughout course
4.4 Information & Communication
Goal: Ensure accessible communication across all platforms.
Actions:
- Website compliant with WCAG 2.0 Level AA (AODA requirement)
- Accessible digital documents (PDFs, forms)
- Alternative formats available upon request
- Clear signage with high contrast and readability
- Staff trained to communicate effectively with persons with disabilities
4.5 Employment Accessibility
Goal: Create an inclusive workplace.
Actions:
- Accessible recruitment process (accommodation offered) • Workplace accommodation plans for employees
- Return-to-work processes for injured staff
- Individual emergency response plans
4.6 Events & Tournaments
Goal: Ensure all SGC events are accessible.
Actions:
- Accessible registration process (online + alternative formats)
- Reserved accessible parking for events
- Accessible seating for dining and awards
- Staff assigned to assist where required
- Clear communication of accessibility features in event materials
4.7 Emergency Procedures
- Accessible evacuation plans
- Staff trained to assist individuals with disabilities
- Clearly marked exits and accessible routes
- Consideration for individuals unable to use stairs
5. Barrier Identification & Removal Strategy
SGC will:
- Conduct annual accessibility audits
- Consult members and guests with disabilities
Prioritize improvements based on:
- Safety
- Frequency of use
- Cost and feasibility
6. Training Plan
All employees, volunteers, and contractors will receive training on:
- AODA requirements
- Customer service standards
- Interaction with persons with disabilities
- Emergency procedures
Training will be:
- Completed upon hiring
- Refreshed annually
- Documented and tracked
7. Monitoring & Reporting
- Accessibility plan reviewed every 3 years
- Annual internal progress updates
- Feedback incorporated into improvements
- Maintain documentation for compliance reporting
8. Multi-Year Accessibility Roadmap Year 1
- Staff training implementation
- Website accessibility improvements
- Accessible signage upgrades
Year 2
- Parking & pathway improvements
- Patio and dining accessibility upgrades
Year 3
- Practice facility enhancements
- Adaptive golf equipment introduction
9. Feedback Process
SGC welcomes feedback on accessibility:
Responses will be provided within 5–10 business days.
10. Plan Availability
This Accessibility Plan will be:
- Posted on SGC website
- Available in alternative formats upon request
