Last Updated: January 20, 2025
ANCAS® is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can access and benefit from its certification services. We recognize the importance of creating a platform that accommodates people with diverse needs and abilities, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment. ANCAS® continually evaluates its policies and practices to ensure accessibility is prioritized in all aspects of our operations. We aim to provide a welcoming experience for all users, ensuring that equal access to information and services is maintained.
ANCAS® provides multiple communication channels to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities. This includes phone, email, and online forms designed to be accessible to those using assistive technologies. We also ensure that our representatives are trained in handling requests from individuals with disabilities and can guide them through the process in a clear and accommodating manner. Our goal is to make sure that anyone reaching out to ANCAS® receives effective, accessible, and timely support.
All of ANCAS®’s digital content, including its website and online resources, is designed to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). We aim to provide a user-friendly and accessible experience for individuals who rely on screen readers, keyboard navigation, or other assistive technologies. By adhering to established accessibility standards, we work to ensure our content is inclusive and easy to navigate for everyone, regardless of ability. Regular audits and updates are conducted to improve the accessibility of our digital interfaces.
ANCAS® ensures that all employees and representatives involved in our certification processes receive regular training on accessibility and inclusivity. This training helps our team members understand the importance of accessibility and equips them with the knowledge to provide exceptional service to individuals with disabilities. By fostering a culture of awareness and sensitivity, we ensure that accessibility remains a priority in all interactions and decision-making processes. Training sessions are updated periodically to reflect evolving accessibility standards and best practices.
For any in-person meetings, consultations, or events, ANCAS® ensures that its facilities are accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. We provide accessible entryways, restrooms, and meeting spaces to accommodate diverse physical needs. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment that enables equal participation and minimizes barriers for all attendees. We also offer virtual alternatives where possible, ensuring that access is available regardless of an individual’s physical location or mobility.
ANCAS® upholds a policy of nondiscrimination, ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to obtain certification. No applicant is denied access to certification based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected status. We are committed to assessing all applicants fairly and solely based on their qualifications and abilities. This ensures that our certifications represent a true measure of merit, without any biases that might limit access for certain groups.
ANCAS® provides alternative formats and accommodations in its certification processes for individuals with disabilities. This may include extended time for assessments, alternative formats for audits, or the provision of assistive technologies as needed. We work closely with applicants to understand their specific needs and ensure that any necessary accommodations are provided in a timely and effective manner. Our commitment is to offer a certification process that is as accessible as possible for every candidate.
Information about ANCAS®’s accessibility policies and available accommodations is clearly communicated on our website and in our service materials. We strive to make it easy for individuals to understand the options available to them and how they can request accommodations. Our goal is to reduce any potential barriers to accessing this information, ensuring that everyone can fully understand their rights and available support. By providing transparency, we empower applicants to seek the help they need without hesitation.
In developing our certification standards, ANCAS® takes into consideration the diverse needs of individuals across various industries. We aim to create standards that are inclusive, practical, and considerate of varying abilities and needs. This approach ensures that our certifications remain relevant and accessible to a broad spectrum of individuals, without excluding anyone based on unnecessary or restrictive criteria. Our commitment to inclusivity reinforces the credibility and value of ANCAS® certifications.
ANCAS® actively encourages feedback from individuals with disabilities to help us improve our accessibility practices. We offer accessible feedback mechanisms, allowing users to share their experiences and suggest improvements. This feedback is invaluable in our ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility, as it allows us to make meaningful adjustments based on real user experiences. By listening to those we serve, we continuously evolve and refine our policies to better meet accessibility needs. You may contact us by notifying us per email (feedback@ancas.org) with any feedback or questions.
To maintain high standards of accessibility, ANCAS® conducts regular audits of its digital and physical spaces. These audits help us identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with current accessibility standards. Our goal is to remain proactive in addressing any accessibility challenges, preventing potential issues from affecting our users. By regularly reviewing our facilities, website, and processes, we uphold our commitment to accessibility and ensure a barrier-free experience for all.
ANCAS® complies with all relevant accessibility laws and regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and international accessibility standards. We are committed to upholding these standards in every aspect of our certification processes and interactions. This compliance not only reflects our legal responsibility but also our ethical commitment to fairness and inclusivity. We take our obligations seriously, knowing that adherence to these regulations supports a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone.
Very truly yours,
American National Council of Accreditation Standards® (ANCAS®)
1400 Jefferson Dr SW
Washington D.C.
20004 United States