By CRM Staff
Toronto, Ontario – November 23, 2018 —The Canadian/American Spinal Research Organization (CRSO) and the Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada have announced a partnership. The two organizations will work together to address road safety through AIA Canada’s Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program (CCIAP). The focus of the partnership will be to promote proper repair procedures and improve the safety of Canadian drivers through CCIAP.
Currently, 43 percent of spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle collisions. The statistic is a major reason why the CRSO, as a part of “paving the Way to a Cure” campaign, looked to partner with industry stakeholders such as AIA Canada.
AIA Canada’s Canadian Collision Industry Accreditation Program accredits collision repair facilities that meet OEM industry standards. CCIAP accreditation requires collision repair facilities to show compliance with standards covering core business operations, equipment and training.
“The quality of repairs and the safety of Canadians are paramount to AIA Canada and its members,” explains Jean-François Champagne, president of AIA Canada. “The automotive aftermarket plays a critical role in repairing and maintaining the 26 million vehicles on Canadian roads. Safe cars save lives and prevent tragedies such as spinal cord injury.”
“Working together to make our roads safer will have a direct effect on the prevention of spinal cord injuries, which in addition to our fundraising and awareness initiatives, is something we believe very strongly in at the CSRO,” said Barry Munro, chief development officer of the CSRO. “We’re looking forward to spreading the message of accredited vehicle repairs, which in turn will keep our roads safer for everyone.”
