Accessibility

BWG Transit through Argo provides an on-demand transit with accessible features to ensure all riders have fair and safe access to our service.

Every BWG Transit bus includes the following accessibility features:

ramps with audible and visual warning indicators
forward-facing wheelchair/mobility aid space
easily reachable stop request buttons in the Priority Seating area
space to safely stow mobility aid devices

Argo buses include both a Priority Seating area for people with disabilities and a Courtesy Seating area for passengers who may benefit from a seat but do not have a disability, such as support persons, expectant mothers, or people with small children in strollers.

Accessible Transit Services Handbook

This handbook is your guide to travelling safely and independently on BWG's transit system. Use it to help you plan your trip, locate accessible services, or contact us.

Handbook

Support Person Program

If you require a support person to accompany you on BWG Transit, complete a Support Person Pass application. Support Persons travel for free to assist you throughout your journey.

Support Person Pass Application Click Here to Submit
your Form

The document is a fillable PDF, so you can print the document and then write in your information, or fill it out online and then either print it or select the e-mail option in your browser window. The address and e-mail to return it to are included on the form.

BWG Transit – Emergency Preparedness and Response Procedure

Keeping all customers safe is our top priority. BWG Transit personnel and emergency personnel are trained and equipped to handle all types of emergencies. Situational conditions and the individual customer needs are considered when determining the best strategy for each unique circumstance.

Wherever possible, BWG Transit staff will assist customers to safely clear from the bus the same way they do under normal circumstances.

BWG Transit – Emergency Preparedness and Response Procedure

Purpose

This procedure outlines BWG Transit’s commitment to accessible emergency preparedness and response for individuals with disabilities, as required under Section 37(1) and (2) of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (O. Reg. 191/11) of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA).

Scope

Applies to all BWG Transit employees, contractors, and third-party service providers involved in delivering conventional and/or specialized transit services.

Applicable Legislation

Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR), O. Reg. 191/11 – Section 37 (1):

a) shall establish, implement, maintain and document emergency preparedness and response policies that provide for the safety of persons with disabilities; and

b) shall make those policies available to the public. O. Reg. 191/11, s. 37 (1).

Policy Statement

BWG Transit is committed to ensuring the safety and inclusion of all passengers during emergencies. Our procedures incorporate accessibility principles and respond to the diverse needs of passengers with disabilities.

Guidelines for Accessibility in Emergencies

Accessible Information Emergency procedures, evacuation plans, and communication protocols are available in accessible formats upon request.
Visual, auditory, and mobility-related accommodation (e.g., signage, alarms, announcements) are integrated on vehicles.

Staff Training

Assisting passengers with disabilities during emergencies
Using accessibility equipment and communication supports
Sensitivity and awareness training to support individuals with disabilities

Communication During Emergencies

Emergency information will be communicated in accessible ways, including alternative formats and communication methods as required.
Staff will support passengers using assistive devices or non-verbal communication tools.

Equipment and Infrastructure

All emergency and accessibility equipment are maintained in compliance with legislative standards.
Daily inspections by bus operators confirm the functionality of key equipment such as ramps, lifts, tie-downs, and securement systems.
Service provider staff prioritize repairs to accessibility equipment.
Vehicles with inoperative accessibility features will be removed from service until fixed.

Emergency Procedures - Vehicle Maintenance and Emergency Equipment

All buses in operation for BWG Transit are equipped with:

Two-way radio communication with a supervisor
Fire extinguisher
First aid kit
Emergency reflectors

Daily pre-trip inspections ensure all equipment is operational, including accessibility features.

Emergency Procedures - Scenarios

Vehicle Breakdowns or Stops

The bus operator safely pulls over and notifies the supervisor/technician.
If unable to continue, a replacement vehicle is dispatched.
Passengers are advised to remain onboard unless it is unsafe to do so.

Accidents and Injuries Operators will:

Call 911 if there are injuries or evacuation needs
Notify dispatch and inform emergency services if assistance is needed for passengers with disabilities
Provide access to the first aid kit
Stay at the scene until emergency responders arrive

Vehicle Fire Operators will:

Pull over, shut off the engine, open doors, and call dispatch for emergency services
Advise passengers and assist with deboarding, prioritizing those with disabilities • Use the fire extinguisher if safe to do so
Prevent re-entry and await emergency responders

Medical Emergencies

Operators will:

Assess the situation and call 911 if required
Notify dispatch and provide access to first aid supplies
Clearly communicate the location to passengers needing to deboard
Request supervisor support if additional assistance is needed

Natural Disasters

Management monitors weather alerts and may suspend service in severe conditions to ensure safety.

Public Availability

Emergency procedures will be:

Posted on the BWG Transit website in accessible format
Provided in alternate formats upon request
Reviewed and updated as needed, especially after major incidents or legislative changes

Review and Monitoring

This procedure is reviewed annually to maintain compliance with AODA requirements and reflect current emergency practices.

Contact Information

For questions or accessible versions of this policy, contact:

Clerk’s Office Phone: 905-775-5366

Email: accessibility@townofbwg.com

Website: www.townofbwg.com

Last Updated: October, 2025

Accessible Taxicab Services

Residents with mobility needs can also enjoy safe, reliable, and fully accessible transportation through two of BWG's local taxi service providers. Click here to learn more.

Please note that taxicab rates are subject to the individual service provider and are not reflective of BWG Transit rates.

Provide Your Feedback

If you have feedback - either positive or negative - regarding the accessibility of our BWG Transit system, please let us know.

Complete the Feedback Form

CNIB ID Card Holders

Registered CNIB customers can use their CNIB one-piece photo ID card as a full-fare transit pass on all routes.