Nova Scotia Community College
IN-48: Innovation B

In February 2018, NSCC and the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) partnered to deliver the RHFAC Accessibility Assessor training course. This course was previously solely offered in British Columbia, making NSCC the only other institution in Canada to offer this course. Currently, it’s also available in Ontario, Alberta and Online. Participants are trained to measure the overall level of meaningful access to a Site by evaluating a building’s specific features—particularly for persons with physical, sensory, learning, and developmental disabilities. Like LEED certification, this program follows consistent, global standards that use a rating system to identify physical and invisible barriers for improved access and to promote inclusion. The course participants develop a strong understanding of the impact of the social and physical environment on people with disabilities, relevant legislation, regulations and standards needed when planning and executing a rating, Universal Design principles and standards, interpretation and navigation of construction drawing sets, and undergo disability simulation experiences that provide “hands-on” training to enhance awareness of how people with disabilities interact with the built environment.
RHFAC Training Course Prerequisites are:
A diploma or at least two years of completed post-secondary studies in architecture, engineering, urban planning, interior design, or a related program; or
A Journeyperson Certificate of Qualification in a designated trade related to building construction; or
An engineer (or eligible for registration as an engineer); or
An architect (or eligible for registration as an architect); or
Have a minimum of five years of construction experience; or
Have an equivalent combination of lived experience and built environment knowledge.
The RHFAC Professional designation is awarded to those that pass the RHFAC Accessibility Assessor training course, have met the field experience requirements, and pass the RHFAC Professional exam administered by the CSA Group. RHFAC Professionals maintain their designation by following the Code of Ethics, maintaining Accessibility Professional Network (APN) membership, and meeting continuing education requirements. Only designated RHFAC Professionals are qualified to conduct an RHFAC rating.
NSCC enrolled two staff in the pilot program; both have since received RHFAC Professional designation. Our Ivany campus received RHF Accessibility Certified status on June 4th, 2019, and our Institute of Technology Campus received RHF Accessibility Certified status on August 27th, 2022 making them two of eight Sites in Nova Scotia to be certified.