PEAC 800 - Accessibility Institute

PEAC 800: Building Accessible Spaces

Experience the world through a new lens and transform your built environment to create accessible spaces for people of all abilities! Learn why is it is critical to look at our Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification physical spaces beyond compliance. In PEAC 800, participants will learn to apply Universal Design, navigate relevant Canadian accessibility legislation, and integrate meaningful access in physical spaces. Participants will also explore opportunities for professional growth through the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC), positioning them at the forefront of accessible design.

We strongly encourage participants to take PEAC 100 before engaging in any other PEAC courses, as participants will be equipped with the essential foundational knowledge and perspective needed to take actionable steps toward accessibility in their organizations and communities. PEAC 100 focuses on the following topics:

PEAC 100 Topics

Models of Disability: Medical, charity, moral, economic, and social models.
Accessibility Language: Importance of inclusive language, person-first vs. identity-first language, and disability-related terminology.
Common Experiences of Disability: Disability statistics, types, visible vs. non-visible disabilities, and neurodiversity.
Barriers to Inclusion: Attitudinal, environmental/physical, communication, and systemic/policy barriers.
Creating Inclusive Spaces: Best practices for workplaces, introduction to universal design, active listening and allyship.
Disclosure and Accommodations: Understanding disclosure and duty to inform/inquire/ accommodate, and common best practices for recruitment and workplace accommodations.

Enroll Now!

For more information about the Professional Education for Accessibility Competence (PEAC) program, please visit our main webpage.

Ideally Designed For

Architects, Interior Designers, and Urban Planners: Those involved in designing or remodelling spaces, ensuring that universal design principles are integrated into every project.

Facility and Building Managers: Professionals responsible for the upkeep and operational compliance of buildings who can apply these principles to enhance accessibility.

Accessibility Consultants and Compliance Officers: Individuals tasked with navigating Canadian accessibility legislation and going beyond basic code compliance.

Policy Makers and Government Officials: Those who shape public policy or oversee regulations in public and private sectors, ensuring environments are inclusive.
Corporate HR and Workplace Strategy Leaders: Professionals looking to create accessible, welcoming workplaces that benefit all employees.

What You’ll Learn

By the end of PEAC 800, you will learn how to:

Identify Built-Environment Barriers: Gain insight into the physical obstacles people with disabilities face and how thoughtful design enhances usability for diverse users.
Design Spaces That Work for Everyone: Develop an understanding of “meaningful access” and fundamental requirements for designing, learning why they are critical when designing for the built environment.
Integrate Universal Design: Get practical tips on how to integrate Universal Design principles into planning and development, ensuring all individuals can navigate, use, and thrive in physical spaces.
Understand the Rules: Identify important Canadian and international accessibility laws, learn how to handle design challenges, and understand aspects of undue hardship in the physical environment.
Exceed Basic Compliance: Differentiate between building codes and standards, including the benefits of measuring access, ensuring no opportunity for inclusion is missed.
Upgrade Your Visibility: Learn about the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification program and how it can boost your organization’s reputation as a leader in accessible design.

Upcoming Sessions:

Multi
DAY

PEAC 800: Building Accessible Spaces

Apr 29, 2025 – May 01, 2025

What To Expect During PEAC 800

Interactive Small Group Sessions: PEAC competencies are designed for intentional interaction, encouraging meaningful discussions and collaboration in small groups.
Engaging and Practical Learning: Expect real-world applications, scenario-based discussions, and case studies to deepen your understanding of accessibility.
Breaks to Support Focus: We include regular breaks to reduce screen fatigue and help participants stay engaged.
Opportunities to Ask Questions: We foster an open learning environment, allowing participants to seek clarification and engage in discussions throughout the session.
Flexible and Inclusive Formats: Our sessions are designed with accessibility in mind, including options for captions and course materials that have been reviewed for accessibility. Please see the accommodations section below for more information.
Exclusive Access: You will have access to download the course materials for three months after your session.

If you encounter any difficulties accessing or viewing course materials, please let us know as soon as possible so we can troubleshoot the issue together.

Accommodations

We are committed to adapting to the needs of all participants and welcome feedback on how we can support your engagement in PEAC. If you require any specific accommodations, please reach out as soon as possible, and we are happy to work with you to ensure an accessible and inclusive learning experience.

Meet Your Instructor

Kristen Habermehl

PEAC 800 Instructor

Full Profile

Looking for more information? Visit the PEAC homepage or Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more about the Professional Education for Accessibility Competence program.

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