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The childcare centre shall be located such that the path from parking, transit, and drop-off zones to the building main entrance comply with the requirements of CSA/ASC B651:23, unless otherwise specified in this standard.

At least one drop-off and pick-up zone shall serve as a childcare centre

b) provide an access aisle at street level, a minimum of 1,500 mm wide and 14,000 mm long to accommodate two vehicles; c) be separated from the walkway by a curb, tactile attention indicator surface, or other physical indicators; d) where applicable, have access from the street level access aisle to the raised curb area via a depressed curb ramp that runs for the length of the drop-off zone that complies with clause 8.3.3 of CSA/ASC B651:23;

b) provide an access aisle at street level, a minimum of 1,500 mm wide and 14,000 mm long to accommodate two vehicles; c) be separated from the walkway by a curb, tactile attention indicator surface, or other physical indicators; d) where applicable, have access from the street level access aisle to the raised curb area via a depressed curb ramp that runs for the length of the drop-off zone that complies with clause 8.3.3 of CSA/ASC B651:23;

have illumination at least 50 lx at ground level

have a service dog relief area that complies with clause 9.4 of CAN-ASC-5.2.1.

have a service dog relief area that complies with clause 9.4 of CAN-ASC-5.2.1.

The main entrance to the building leading to the childcare centre, and the main entrance to the childcare centre shall have doorways with: a. power-assisted doors that comply with clause 5.2.9 of CSA/ASC B651:23; b. controls to allow for accessibility, while also maintaining the security and safety of the children in attendance; and c. a clear opening width of at least 950 mm complying with CAN-ASC-2.3.

The childcare centre emergency egress shall: a. comprise an accessible egress path of travel as per Clause 11.3.1; b. comprise emergency provisions as per clause 5.7 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. include a minimum of two emergency exits to the exterior of the childcare facility or to an area of refuge; and d. be located on different sides of the childcare centre. Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

The childcare centre emergency egress shall: a. comprise an accessible egress path of travel as per Clause 11.3.1; b. comprise emergency provisions as per clause 5.7 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. include a minimum of two emergency exits to the exterior of the childcare facility or to an area of refuge; and d. be located on different sides of the childcare centre. Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

The childcare centre emergency egress shall: a. comprise an accessible egress path of travel as per Clause 11.3.1; b. comprise emergency provisions as per clause 5.7 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. include a minimum of two emergency exits to the exterior of the childcare facility or to an area of refuge; and d. be located on different sides of the childcare centre. Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

The childcare centre emergency egress shall: a. comprise an accessible egress path of travel as per Clause 11.3.1; b. comprise emergency provisions as per clause 5.7 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. include a minimum of two emergency exits to the exterior of the childcare facility or to an area of refuge; and d. be located on different sides of the childcare centre. Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

Note: Emergency procedures should include provisions for assisting children with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, including designated staff roles, accessible evacuation devices (where applicable), and clear communication strategies for children with hearing or visual impairments.

Paths of travel that do not form part of the emergency path of travel shall comply with clause 5 of CSA/ASC B651:23 and shall include tactile wayfinding supports, such as tactile walking surface indicators.

Paths of travel that do not form part of the emergency path of travel shall comply with clause 5 of CSA/ASC B651:23 and shall include tactile wayfinding supports, such as tactile walking surface indicators.

The dimensions of a stationary position for people using a wheeled mobility device shall be: a. no less than 820 mm by 1,390 mm where it serves a single person (e.g., child, staff, parent, or guardian); and b. no less than 1,600 mm by 1,390 mm where it serves two people at the same time (e.g., teacher and child, parent / guardian and child, etc.).

Wayfinding and signage shall comply with Clause 17.

The number and type of childcare activity spaces within a childcare centre depend on its policies and program focus. However, a childcare centre shall have a space for at least: a. one classroom; b. one therapy room; and c. one quiet room.

Usage of the term “room”

All classrooms in a childcare centre shall: a. comply with Clause 15.3; b. be designed to accommodate a specific or maximum number of children, teachers, and staff; c. provide non-overlapping stationary position clear space as per Clause 12.1.2 for the number of people to be accommodated as per item b) of this Clause; d. provide at least one turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm permitted to overlap with the stationary positions

“Classrooms and learning spaces”

Note 2: Flexibility in the design of multi-purpose and multi-functional spaces allows for the efficient use of spaces where the childcare centre space is limited, demographics are not known, or demographics are non-specific. The designer is encouraged to design spaces that comply with as many requirements as possible in Clause 12.4 to maximize the possible utility and flexibility of the space.

be designed to accommodate a specific and known number of children, teachers, and staff but not less than two people (e.g., one therapist and one child);

Note 5: Flexibility in the design of multi-purpose and multi-functional spaces allows for the efficient use of spaces where the childcare centre space is limited, demographics are not known, or demographics are non-specific. The designer is encouraged to design spaces that comply with as many requirements as possible in Clause 12.4 to maximize the possible utility and flexibility of the space.

Note 5: Accessible instrument storage should not obstruct egress paths and should comply with fire safety and emergency egress requirements of the AHJ.

Note: Flexibility in the design of multi-purpose and multi-functional spaces allows for the efficient use of spaces where the childcare centre space is limited, demographics are not known, or demographics are non-specific. The designer is encouraged to design spaces that comply with as many requirements as possible in Clause 12.4 to maximize the possible utility and flexibility of the space.

be designed to accommodate a maximum of two people;

provide a “safety bed and chair” within the space

Note 2: Flexibility in the design of multi-purpose and multi-functional spaces allows for the efficient use of spaces where the childcare centre space is limited, demographics are not known, or demographics are non-specific. The designer is encouraged to design spaces that comply with as many requirements as possible in Clause 12.4 to maximize the possible utility and flexibility of the space.

Clause 12.4.6 and Clause 12.4.7

Clause 12.4.6 and 12.4.7 (Language from 12.4.6 only) Multi-purpose rooms shall be designed to accommodate a variety of activities and adaptive uses. They may function as a sensory room, quiet room, play area, classroom, therapy room, meeting room, or dining area.

Spaces that are primarily designated for movement between adjacent rooms and spaces that are less than 1,800 mm in length shall: a. except as stated in item b) in this Clause below, comply with Clause 12.1.1 after the installation of all furniture, equipment, etc. (e.g., trash bins, office supply cabinets, mini fridges, etc.); or b. have a minimum clear width of 1,600 mm. Note: A clear width dimension of 1,800 mm is preferred to allow multiple wheeled mobility device users (e.g., teacher and child) to navigate the hallways more easily.

c) be adjustable between 400 mm and at least 1,100 mm when they are intended to be used by both;

Indoor play areas and recreation zones

Sensory zones

Bathrooms shall: a. where intended for staff and other adults: i. comply with clause 6.2 of CSA/ASC B651:23; or ii. comply with clause 6.3 of CSA/ASC B651:23 for universal washrooms. b. where intended for children and adults: i. comply with clause 6.2.6.1 a) of CSA/ASC B651:23 except the toilet fixtures shall have the top located between 250 mm and 280 mm above finished floor; ii. have stall privacy screens and doors no higher than 150 mm from the floor; iii. have shatterproof mirrors complying with CAN/CGSB 12.5-M86; iv. have sanitary disposal receptacles that are not foot activated, are operable with a closed fist, and that are installed on the wall near the front of the toilet; and v. have sharps disposal containers installed at a maximum height of 1,100 mm from the finished floor, where provided. Note 1: For adult-assisted toileting spaces, adjustable-height toilets should be provided where feasible, to accommodate diverse needs, including mixed-age users and those requiring assistance. Note 2: The emergency call system should be located within reach of being seated on the toilet and 300 mm above the floor.

where intended for children and adults: i. comply with clause 6.2.6.1 a) of CSA/ASC B651:23 except the toilet fixtures shall have the top located between 250 mm and 280 mm above finished floor; ii. have stall privacy screens and doors no higher than 150 mm from the floor; iii. have shatterproof mirrors complying with CAN/CGSB 12.5-M86; iv. have sanitary disposal receptacles that are not foot activated, are operable with a closed fist, and that are installed on the wall near the front of the toilet; and v. have sharps disposal containers installed at a maximum height of 1,100 mm from the finished floor, where provided.

Bathrooms shall: a. where intended for staff and other adults: i. comply with clause 6.2 of CSA/ASC B651:23; or ii. comply with clause 6.3 of CSA/ASC B651:23 for universal washrooms. b. where intended for children and adults: i. comply with clause 6.2.6.1 a) of CSA/ASC B651:23 except the toilet fixtures shall have the top located between 250 mm and 280 mm above finished floor; ii. have stall privacy screens and doors no higher than 150 mm from the floor; iii. have shatterproof mirrors complying with CAN/CGSB 12.5-M86; iv. have sanitary disposal receptacles that are not foot activated, are operable with a closed fist, and that are installed on the wall near the front of the toilet; and v. have sharps disposal containers installed at a maximum height of 1,100 mm from the finished floor, where provided. Note 1: For adult-assisted toileting spaces, adjustable-height toilets should be provided where feasible, to accommodate diverse needs, including mixed-age users and those requiring assistance. Note 2: The emergency call system should be located within reach of being seated on the toilet and 300 mm above the floor.

have an adjustable table with the option to be lowered to 300 mm in height from the floor;

be equipped with a safety strap to safely hold a person 75 kg in weight from accidentally rolling off;

have a concave top surface or a lip;

Privacy for both children and adults in a childcare centre is a priority. Childcare centres shall have at least one toileting assistance bathroom. Toileting assistance bathroom shall: a. comply with Clause 12.6.1; b. have the stationary position clear space required by Clause 12.6.1 that does not overlap with any other clear space requirements (e.g., turning diameter clear space, grab bar clearance, etc.); and c. not be located in direct view of the entrance, waiting areas, play areas, or other areas where children commonly gather to allow caregivers to provide assistance with minimal exposure during entry and exit. Note: Adults and children who are unable to activate the emergency call system should always be accompanied by another person.

Kitchen and Dining Area

Dining areas shall: a. be designed to accommodate a specific and known number of children, teachers, and staff; b. provide non-overlapping stationary position clear space as per Clause 12.1.2 for the number of people to be accommodated as per item a) of this Clause; c. be served by a path of travel that complies with Clause 12.1.1; d. have adjustable tables that comply with Clause 12.4.9.1; e. provide at least one turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm permitted to overlap with the stationary positions; f. include a 30% minimum Michelson luminance (colour) contrast complying with clause 4.2 CSA/ASC B651:23 between key elements such as tables, walls, floors, door, etc.; g. have a transfer space of 900 mm x 1,500 mm where a transition from a wheeled mobility device to a solid chair is required; and h. have a sink that complies with clause 5.10.7 of CSA/ASC B652:23. Note 1: The flexibility of movable furniture, such as tables and chairs in the dining area, enhances the ability to create an accessible dining layout that accommodates varying occupancies and needs. Note 2: Consider a mix of chairs with and without armrests to accommodate different mobility needs. Note 3: Dining areas should be separate from high-risk kitchen zones to ensure child safety. This is best achieved in separate kitchen and dining area layouts. Note 4: Consider providing a separate quiet area or sensory-friendly seating option for children who require a low-stimulation environment.

Locker rooms shall: a. have a total bench length (single or multiple benches) of 2,400 mm; b. have benches that comply with clause 6.4 of CSA/ASC B651:23, except for item d), where the top surface height from the floor is permitted to be as low as 305 mm where justified by the demographics of the childcare centre (see note below); and c. comply with clause 6.8 of CSA/ASC B651:23. Note: Clause 6.4 of CSA/ASC B651:23 requires that locker room benches be mounted with their top surface 480 mm to 520 mm from the floor. However, benches intended for children may be as low as 300 mm. Depending on the design and demographics of the childcare centre, the height of the benches will need to be mixed between those that comply with CSA/ASC B651:23 and those which are 305 mm above the floor. Where possible, particularly in smaller rooms, height-adjustable benches should be used to accommodate both adults and children.

14.1 Accessible staff workspaces Accessible staff workspaces shall: a. be served by a path of travel that complies with Clause 12.1.1; b. have a stationary clear space complying with Clause 12.1.2 for each workstation or equipment; c. have a turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm that does not overlap with the stationary clear space; and d. have desks or tables that comply with Clause 12.4.9.1. Note 1: The turning space not overlapping with the stationary space allows one person in a wheeled mobility device to be moving while another person remains stationary in the workspace. Note 2: When purchasing goods and services, accessibility specifications should be carefully considered. The operational requirements should consider accessibility for both the staff who operate the goods or services and the individuals who will benefit from them. Since accessibility needs vary on a case-by-case basis, specifications cannot be assumed. It is essential to evaluate the specific needs of the individuals who will operate and benefit from the goods or services, identifying requirements that are both accessible and practical for them. Selecting accessible technologies that accommodate multiple accessibility needs is often the most effective approach. 14.2 Break rooms and rest areas Break rooms and rest areas shall: a. be served by a path of travel that complies with Clause 12.1.1; b. where provided, have seating that complies with clause 6.7.2 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. have stationary clear space in accordance with Clause 12.1.2 for a known number of staff but not less than two people; and d. have a turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm that does not overlap with at least one of the provided stationary clear spaces.

14.1 Accessible staff workspaces Accessible staff workspaces shall: a. be served by a path of travel that complies with Clause 12.1.1; b. have a stationary clear space complying with Clause 12.1.2 for each workstation or equipment; c. have a turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm that does not overlap with the stationary clear space; and d. have desks or tables that comply with Clause 12.4.9.1. Note 1: The turning space not overlapping with the stationary space allows one person in a wheeled mobility device to be moving while another person remains stationary in the workspace. Note 2: When purchasing goods and services, accessibility specifications should be carefully considered. The operational requirements should consider accessibility for both the staff who operate the goods or services and the individuals who will benefit from them. Since accessibility needs vary on a case-by-case basis, specifications cannot be assumed. It is essential to evaluate the specific needs of the individuals who will operate and benefit from the goods or services, identifying requirements that are both accessible and practical for them. Selecting accessible technologies that accommodate multiple accessibility needs is often the most effective approach.

14.2 Break rooms and rest areas Break rooms and rest areas shall: a. be served by a path of travel that complies with Clause 12.1.1; b. where provided, have seating that complies with clause 6.7.2 of CSA/ASC B651:23; c. have stationary clear space in accordance with Clause 12.1.2 for a known number of staff but not less than two people; and d. have a turning diameter clear space of 2,100 mm that does not overlap with at least one of the provided stationary clear spaces.

e) provide ambient light levels at least 200 lx in the dining area;

Note 3: Installing hearing loop, FM, or Bluetooth-compatible systems in reception areas, meeting rooms, and learning spaces are encouraged to enhance accessibility.

Childcare centres shall have a maintenance plan in place to ensure that all accessibility features and safety are kept fully operational. Maintenance plans include but are not limited to: a. quarterly feature testing; b. quarterly emergency egress drills; c. instant reporting system for damage or malfunctioning equipment; d. an established service network for fast repair of critical equipment; and e. annual accessibility audit. Note: Responsibility for accessibility upkeep should be assigned to a designated accessibility coordinator.

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To the Accessible Procurement Resource Centre (APRC) Suggested feedback re Draft Standard for Accessible Procurement Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft standard for accessible procurement. At the Document Imaging Solutions Centre (DISC) of PSPC, we have had the pleasure of working with our procurement colleagues in the development of the National Master Standing Offer (NMSO) for digitization services currently available to the federal government and to other public sector organizations in Canada under the Canadian Collaborative Procurement Initiative (CCPI). We are very pleased that our expertise when combined with that of Procurement Branch helps other organizations achieve their digitization and data enrichment objectives in a cost-effective and technically correct manner, meeting all required Government of Canada standards. Related to accessibility, DISC will complete an Accessibility Digitization project under the Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) program by October 2027 that will be invaluable in meeting the objectives set out in the standard for Accessible Procurement and the Government of Canada obligations under the Accessible Canada Act 2019. The area of focus is the Information Management section. The project is developing a software solution with the support of the Innovative Research Solutions Division-Challenges (SI). The software solution will meet the change statement posted on the ISC website; https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/innovative-solutions-canada/en/turning-pixels-data-imaging-accessibility which seeks to fully automate the remediation of static file formats like PDF into dynamic file formats like HTML5 and ePub3 so that accessibility tools like JAWS (Job Access With Speech) which is an example of a screen reader that converts on-screen text, menus, and controls into synthesized speech or Braille. It empowers individuals who are blind or have low vision to navigate computers, browse websites, and operate applications independently. The software solution has cleared Phase 1 and we are at milestone 4 of 12 in Phase 2 of the prototype development using a multi-model AI architecture to remediate high volume of information management assets with high quality and low cost. We would like to suggest that the standard recognize the importance of remediation of static information management assets and partner with DISC for solutions when vendors submit materials in a static file format and/or public servant employees require materials in accessible formats to be able to do their job within Procurement Branch.