Achieving Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™
June 19, 2026CSV Architects is thrilled to share that our office space has achieved certification under the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) program. This recognition marks an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to creating spaces that are inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
Our accessibility journey began with the goal for every person to move through and experience our spaces with independence and ease. As accessibility standards across Ontario continue to evolve, we recognize the importance of aligning our work with the highest standards of inclusive design.
That’s what led us to join over 2,283 sites across Canada in being rated through the RHFAC program. RHFAC provides organizations with an understanding of their overall level of meaningful access in the built environment, based on the holistic user experience of people with varying disabilities affecting their mobility, vision and hearing.
Designing for Inclusion
To CSV, accessible design means more than compliance. Achieving a rating score of 79.1%, this certification demonstrates our dedication to removing barriers and continually improving accessibility for our visitors and employees of all abilities.
We selected our office space in 2019 with accessibility in mind. A ground floor location was selected, and a universal washroom was added as part of our lease agreement. The main entrance is easy to navigate, featuring clear signage, and no ramps or stairs are required to enter the office or primary meeting areas. Inside there are clear pathways and parallel corridors that support easy movement. Doors are equipped with lever-style handles and provide sufficient latch-side clearance. The lobby and reception area are also inclusive, offering good lighting, visitor seating, and a dual-height reception desk to accommodate standing and seated visitors. The building has 2 spacious, user-friendly elevators with accessible controls, braille and tactile markings, and adequate door timing for safe entry and exit.
Workspaces include sit-stand desks and adjustable chairs. Seating at varied heights throughout the office allows for flexibility. The staff kitchens are barrier free, featuring clear maneuvering space, roll-under sinks and work surfaces, single-lever faucets, accessibly placed microwaves, and bottom-freezer refrigerators. Comfort is improved throughout with acoustic treatments for sound dampening and dimmable lighting, which is complimented by task lighting at each workstation.
Looking Ahead
We’re proud to support the movement toward a world that is accessible for everyone, everywhere. CSV recognizes that accessibility is ongoing journey, and we remain committed to adapting and advancing with the changing design standards. Our vision is for Healthy, inclusive communities through architecture, collaboration, and innovation.
CSV has invested in training for seven team members to become RHFAC Certified and have been involved in third party verification of three sites to date.