NorQuest College proudly announces that four of its buildings have received the prestigious Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC). The certified locations include the Career Development Centre, the Singhmar Centre for Learning, the Civic Employees Legacy Tower, and Centre 108. This certification highlights the college's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all community members.
William Hamilton, Manager of Accessibility Services at NorQuest, emphasizes the significance of this achievement, stating, "It's great that NorQuest is taking this important step towards accessibility and working towards achieving this significant certification. This provides a great foundation for continuing to improve the accessibility of the campus and its buildings."
While the Wetaskiwin campus did not meet the minimum certification standards, the feedback from assessments will drive enhancements across all NorQuest buildings. The Rick Hansen Foundation, renowned for its advocacy and leadership in accessibility, developed the RHFAC program to help organizations evaluate and improve the accessibility of their physical spaces.
The certification process includes a comprehensive audit that assesses various accessibility criteria, such as:
- Exterior and interior paths of travel: Ensuring clear and navigable routes throughout the buildings.
- Washroom and elevator design: Reviewing accessibility features in essential facilities.
- Workstation and classroom layout: Evaluating arrangements to accommodate diverse needs.
- Signage legibility: Ensuring that all signs are easily readable.
This audit process was informed by feedback from learners and employees, highlighting specific challenges faced on campus. Detailed assessments from the Rick Hansen Foundation, including measurements of entrance widths and table heights, provided valuable insights into areas needing improvement. This feedback is instrumental in guiding future enhancements, with the Facilities team already planning upgrades for the fiscal year 2025/26 based on the Foundation's recommendations.
Nadira Barre, Director of the Office of Equity, notes, "Achieving RHFAC is not merely about meeting current standards; it reflects NorQuest's dedication to continuous improvement. It's vital to continue focusing on access to education and examining it from multiple perspectives. This certification positions NorQuest to further enhance its facilities, ensuring a more inclusive experience for learners, employees, and visitors."
Recognition goes to the Facilities, Accessibility Services, and Office of Equity teams for their hard work in securing this significant accreditation. Their dedication and commitment have been crucial in achieving this milestone and setting a high standard for accessibility. NorQuest College appreciates their efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for all.
