VOC Regulations for Certain Products in Canada
Trade Update • July 24, 2024
ffective January 1, 2024, the Canadian government implemented new regulations to limit the concentration of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) for all regulated product categories except disinfectants. Concentration limits for disinfectant products will take effect on January 1, 2025.
Overview of VOC Regulations
VOCs are considered toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act due to their contribution to ground-level ozone and particulate matter, key components of smog. These measures aim to protect the health of Canadians and the environment. The Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Certain Products Regulations set maximum VOC concentrations and emission potentials for around 130 categories of products. These products include those used in households, as well as in institutional, industrial, and commercial settings.
- The regulations apply to any person who manufactures or imports products in Canada that contain VOCs and belong to one of the regulated product categories or subcategories.
- The regulations do not require regulatees to submit reports or conduct product testing to comply with the regulations. However, the onus is on regulatees to ensure that the products they import, or manufacture meet the regulatory limits. The determination of VOC concentration for the purposes of these regulations must be performed by an accredited laboratory.
- Manufacturers and importers of a regulated product are required to indicate, on the product container, the date on which the product was manufactured or a code representing that date.
- Manufacturers and importers of a regulated product are also required to keep records regarding regulated products in Canada for a period of at least 5 years.
Categories of Regulated Products
The following are some of the categories of products that must adhere to the specified VOC limits:
- Personal Care Products: such as deodorants and hairsprays.
- Automotive and Household Maintenance Products: including glass and hard-surface cleaners and brake cleaners.
- Adhesives and Sealants: such as adhesive removers, sealants, and caulks.
- Miscellaneous Products: including anti-static products and non-stick aerosol cooking sprays.
The full list of categories and subcategories of products is presented in Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of the Regulations, in addition to the full list here. The Regulations do not apply to products designed to be used solely in a manufacturing or processing activity.
Resources and Support for Compliance
To assist with compliance, Environment and Climate Change Canada offers various resources:
- The Certain Products and Volatile Organic Compounds webpage provides detailed information on the regulations information on the Regulations information on the Regulations including a factsheet, laboratory testing method and alternative compliance options, including application forms.
Questions about ensuring compliance with these regulations for your products? We are always here to help, contact us.
Subscribe!
