Unlocking Accessible Excellence in 2024: Getting Your Building Rick Hansen Certified

In a world where inclusivity and sustainability are becoming paramount, achieving accessibility standards for your building is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative. One certification that holds significant value in this area is the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC). This certification not only ensures compliance with accessibility standards but also aligns with broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, creating a more holistic approach to building management.

Understanding Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC):

RFHAC is a comprehensive program designed to assess and rate the accessibility of the built environment. Named after the Canadian Paralympian Rick Hansen, who championed accessibility after a spinal cord injury, the certification evaluates various elements such as parking, entrances, washrooms, elevators, and more. RHFAC goes beyond compliance with building codes and focuses on creating an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities.

Benefits of RHFAC Certification:

• Legal Compliance:

Ensure that your building meets or exceeds local accessibility standards. This not only helps in avoiding legal issues but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, fostering positive relationships with regulatory authorities.

• Enhanced Reputation:

Accessible buildings create positive impressions, fostering a sense of community and demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. RHFAC certification adds a layer of credibility to your building, showcasing your dedication to providing a welcoming environment for everyone.

• Increased BOMA Best Scores:

RHFAC enhances your overall building performance. The commitment to accessibility aligns with BOMA Best’s sustainability and environmental responsibility criteria, positively impacting your assessment and score.

• Expanded Customer Base:

Accessible spaces appeal to a broader audience, including individuals with disabilities, seniors, and families with strollers. By obtaining RHFAC certification, you open your doors to a wider customer base, potentially increasing traffic and revenue.

• Increased Property Value:

In a real estate landscape where sustainability and inclusivity are valued, a certified building is likely to attract more interest from potential buyers or tenants.

Tying in ESG Principles:

In the context of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, embracing accessibility and inclusion, as advocated by the Rick Hansen Foundation, is framed as a commitment to a fundamental human right. The promotion of disability inclusion not only aligns with ethical considerations but also has tangible benefits for organizations.

By prioritizing accessibility, organizations contribute to building a more equitable society. Moreover, they gain access to a broader and more diverse audience, customer base, and talent pool. The positive impact extends to improved employee engagement and productivity, fostering an environment conducive to innovation. Forward-thinking organizations recognize that integrating accessibility and inclusive practices is not only ethically sound but also strategically advantageous.

However, the challenge lies in the difficulty of quantifying the ‘S’ or social pillar of ESG, with disability inclusion often being overlooked in measurement frameworks. This oversight is problematic as it diminishes the accuracy of reporting on social impacts and impedes the progress of organizations towards holistic ESG goals. The Rick Hansen Foundation highlights the importance of developing tangible metrics to assess the social aspects of ESG, particularly disability inclusion, to ensure comprehensive and meaningful reporting that reflects the positive societal and business outcomes of such initiatives.

• Social Responsibility:

Inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of social responsibility. RHFAC certification reflects a commitment to creating a socially inclusive space, catering to the needs of individuals with disabilities and promoting diversity within the community.

• Governance and Accountability:

Obtaining RHFAC certification demonstrates strong governance by adhering to accessibility standards. It showcases accountability, ensuring that the building is managed ethically and with consideration for all stakeholders.

Getting your building or portfolio Rick Hansen Foundation Certified is a strategic move that not only ensures legal compliance but can also align with the broader principles of ESG and enhance your BOMA Best scores. Beyond the tangible benefits of attracting a wider audience and enhancing property value, RHFAC reflects a commitment to creating a more inclusive and sustainable built environment. Obtaining RHFAC recognition is a key step toward achieving excellence in building management. For more information, please visit this link or get in touch with us today!