Canada Regulatory News

The Government of Canada has published the final screening assessment for the Selected C3–C5 Alcohols Group under the third phase of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The announcement was made on...

The Government of Canada has published the final screening assessment for the Selected C3–C5 Alcohols Group under the third phase of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The announcement was made on November 22, 2025 and was published in the Canada Gazette, Part I (Vol. 161, No. 47).

Six Substances Assessed

The assessment covers the following six lower-carbon alcohols:

• Propyl alcohol (1-propanol) – CAS RN 71-23-8
• Isopropanol (2-propanol) – CAS RN 67-63-0
• Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) – CAS RN 57-55-6
• 1-Pentanol – CAS RN 71-41-0
• Isobutanol (1-propanol, 2-methyl-) – CAS RN 78-83-1
• tert-Butanol (2-propanol, 2-methyl-) – CAS RN 75-65-0

Assessment Conclusion

According to the final screening assessment, none of the substances meet the criteria set out in Section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). As a result, no further risk management actions are planned at this time.

Timeline

• June 10, 2023: Draft screening assessment published for a 60-day public comment period (Canada Gazette, Part I, Vol. 157, No. 23).
• November 22, 2025: Final screening assessment published.

The Selected C3–C5 Alcohols Group was identified for evaluation under the CMP to ensure continued protection of human health and the environment.

On 22 November 2025, the Government of Canada published the final screening assessment for two industrial chemicals known as the Decenes Group, as part of the third phase of the Chemicals Management P...

On 22 November 2025, the Government of Canada published the final screening assessment for two industrial chemicals known as the Decenes Group, as part of the third phase of the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). This publication also includes a proposed risk management approach, which is now open for a 60-day public comment period following its notification in the Canada Gazette, Part I (Vol. 161, No. 47).

Two Substances Assessed

The Decenes Group includes:

• Hydrogenated didecene (CAS RN 68649-11-6)
• Hydrogenated trimer and tetramer of decene (HTTD) (CAS RN 68649-12-7)

Both substances are classified as materials of unknown or variable composition, complex reaction products, or biological materials (UVCBs).

Assessment Findings

The final screening assessment concludes that the substances meet one or more of the criteria under Section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). As a result, the government has proposed risk management actions, which stakeholders can review and comment on during the consultation period.

Background and Timeline

• January 9, 2021: The draft screening assessment and risk management scope were published for a 60-day public comment period (Canada Gazette Part I, Vol. 155, No. 2).
• June 24, 2023: A mandatory information-gathering notice under Section 71 of CEPA was published in the Canada Gazette (Part I, Vol. 157, No. 25) requesting data on both substances.
• November 22, 2025: The final assessment and proposed risk management approach released.
  

Further information, including reporting requirements associated with the Section 71 notice, is available on the Government of Canada's Chemicals Management Plan website here.

The Government of Canada has published new human health risk characterization documents and updated risk management scopes for key substances in the Flame Retardants Group, as part of ongoing assessme...

The Government of Canada has published new human health risk characterization documents and updated risk management scopes for key substances in the Flame Retardants Group, as part of ongoing assessments under the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The update was released on November 22, 2025, with notices appearing in the Canada Gazette, Part I (Vol. 161, No. 47).

Background

Three substances initially included in the Flame Retardants Group were later identified as low concern and assessed separately through the rapid screening process.

Focus on Ten Flame Retardants

The Flame Retardants Group comprises ten organophosphate and brominated flame retardants, which are divided into alkyl and aryl subgroups. Substances include:

• Triethyl phosphate (TEP) – CAS RN 78-40-0
• Tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP) – CAS RN 78-42-2
• Tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP) – CAS RN 78-51-3
• Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (BEHP) – CAS RN 298-07-7
• Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) – CAS RN 115-86-6
• Isodecyl diphenyl phosphate (IDDP) – CAS RN 29761-21-5
• Tert-butylphenyl diphenyl phosphate (BPDP) – CAS RN 56803-37-3
• Bis(tert-butylphenyl) phenyl phosphate (BDMEPPP) – CAS RN 65652-41-7
• Isopropylated triphenyl phosphate (IPPP) – CAS RN 68937-41-7
• Tetradecabromo-1,4-diphenoxybenzene (TDBDPB) – CAS RN 58965-66-5

New Findings for TPHP and TBOEP

On November 21, 2025, the government released the Human Health Risk Characterization Document for TPHP and TBOEP. The updated conclusion proposes that both substances may be harmful to human health at current exposure levels, building upon the draft assessment.

An updated Risk Management Scope outlining additional potential risk management actions for TPHP and TBOEP was also opened for a 60-day public comment period.

Screening Assessment Status

• Several substances, such as TEP, TBOEP, TPHP, BPDP, BDMEPPP, IDDP, IPPP, are proposed to meet one or more criteria under Section 64 of CEPA and may require risk management.
• Others, including TEHP, BEHP, and TDBDPB, do not meet Section 64 criteria. For TDBDPB, follow-up activities remain under consideration.

Timeline of Key Milestones

• November 2025: Anticipated publication of the final screening assessment and proposed risk management approach for the group.
• November 22, 2025: Publication of the Human Health Risk Characterization Document and updated Risk Management Scope (TPHP and TBOEP).
• June 24, 2023: Publication of section 71 information-gathering notice for TEP and IPPP (Canada Gazette, Part I).
• November 6, 2021: Draft screening assessment and initial risk management scopes are published.

On 30 October 2025, Health Canada released a centralized online index of Product Safety Laboratory (PSL) test methods, which helps industry assess the safety and compliance of consumer products and co...

On 30 October 2025, Health Canada released a centralized online index of Product Safety Laboratory (PSL) test methods, which helps industry assess the safety and compliance of consumer products and cosmetics. Although the use of PSL methods is not mandatory, regulated parties remain fully responsible for ensuring that their products meet all requirements under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, the Food and Drugs Act, and their respective Regulations.

Purpose of the PSL Test Methods

The PSL develops and validates analytical and performance-based methods used to verify compliance with mandatory safety requirements. These methods are shared publicly to support manufacturers, importers, and distributors-particularly where a relevant standardized method is not referenced in regulation or has not yet been developed.

Where regulations do not prescribe a specific test method or testing parameters, companies may select validated procedures or equipment of their choice, provided they are appropriate for determining compliance.

How Industry Can Access These Methods

Test methods can be requested directly from Health Canada by completing the CPS Enquiry Form:

• Under Program, select Consumer Product Safety
• Under Enquiry Type, select Test Method Request

Each method includes an effective date used for version control, ensuring regulated parties reference the most current edition.

List of PSL Test Methods

Below is the full list of available PSL test methods currently published by Health Canada, including their effective dates:

Metals and Chemical Contaminants:

• Total Lead in Surface Coatings by ICP-OES (C02.2.2) - Effective 2024-11-27
• Total Lead & Cadmium in Plastic Products by ICP-OES (C02.3.1) - Effective 2021-02-22
• Total Lead & Cadmium in Metallic Products by ICP-OES (C02.4.1) - Effective 2019-03-15
• Total Metals in Cosmetics by Microwave Digestion & ICP-MS (C05) - Effective 2022-06-08
• Total Mercury in Coatings & Cosmetics by DMA 80 WR (C07) - Effective 2023-07-19
• Migratable Heavy Metals in Surface Coatings by ICP-OES (C08.1) - Effective 2022-10-18
• Leachable Lead in Kettles by ICP-MS (C09) - Effective 2024-09-27
• Migratable Lead & Cadmium from Glazed Ceramics/Glassware (C10.1) - Effective 2024-01-04
• α-Pinene, D-Limonene, α-Terpineol in Products by GC-MS (C11.1) - Effective 2020-07-08
• Ethylene Glycol & Di-Ethylene Glycol by GC-MS (C11.2) - Effective 2020-08-10

Product Formulation and Chemical Properties:

• pH of Cosmetics using PC-Titrate (C13.1) - Effective 2021-05-05
• Acid/Alkali Reserve by Titration (C14.2) - Effective 2020-06-29
• Kinematic Viscosity by Automatic Viscometer (C27) - Effective 2021-04-22
• Boric Acid in Toys by ICP-MS (C30) - Effective 2019-12-13
• Phthalates in PVC Products by GC/EI-MS (C34.3) - Effective 2025-01-24
• TCEP in Children's Products by ASE & GC-MS (C38.1) - Effective 2024-06-28
• para-Phenylenediamine in Cosmetics by GC-MS (C42) - Effective 2023-03-16

Flammability Testing:

• Flammability of Toys (F02) - Effective 2024-11-22
• Loose-Fitting Children's Sleepwear (F17) - Effective 2025-06-10
• Test Method for Lighters (F19) - Effective 2025-04-11
• Flame Projection & Flashback - Pressurized Containers (C23) - Effective 2021-05-13
• Flame Projection - Pump-Spray Containers (C23.1) - Effective 2021-05-13
• Flame Projection - Cosmetic Products (C23.2) - Effective 2021-05-13

Mechanical & Physical Hazards:

• Small Components (M00.1) - Effective 2024-02-26
• Sharp Edges (M00.2) - Effective 2025-01-24
• Sharp Points (M00.3) - Effective 2024-02-29
• Eye/Nose Security for Dolls & Plush Toys (M00.4) - Effective 2025-04-03
• Reasonably Foreseeable Use - Toys (M01.1) - Effective 2024-03-11
• Flexible Film Bags (M03) - Effective 2025-01-15
• Sound Level of Toys (M04) - Effective 2025-07-25
• Rattles (M05) - Effective 2024-04-29

Infant and Child Care Products:

• Playpens (M08) - Effective 2022-01-12
• Pacifiers & Similar Products (M09) - Effective 2025-07-11
• Cribs (M12.1) - Effective 2024-09-11
• Cradles (M12.2) - Effective 2023-12-28
• Bassinets (M12.3) - Effective 2023-12-28
• Accessories & Stands (M12.4) - Effective 2023-12-28

Other Consumer Product Categories

• Corded Window Coverings (M22) - Effective 2023-10-25

Key Takeaway for Industry

Manufacturers and importers should regularly review PSL updates to ensure that their testing programs align with the most current validated methodologies, especially for high-risk areas such as heavy metals, flammability, child safety, and cosmetic ingredients. Although PSL methods are optional, they offer a reliable benchmark for demonstrating due diligence and regulatory compliance in Canada.

Established under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), the Federal Plastics Registry (FPR), is a central element in Canada’s efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote a circul...

Established under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA), the Federal Plastics Registry (FPR), is a central element in Canada’s efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote a circular economy. Administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the Registry collects standardized national data on plastics placed on the Canadian market and how they are managed at the end of their life cycle.

The FPR is designed to improve transparency and accountability across the plastics value chain as well as harmonizing reporting across jurisdictions. Unlike existing provincial extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs, which differ in scope and definitions, the FPR establishes consistent national reporting requirements. It aims to capture plastics throughout their entire lifecycle, from manufacture and import to reuse, recycling, and disposal, providing a clear picture of how plastics circulate within the Canadian economy.

Phase 1: Initial Reporting Cycle for Producers

The first phase of the FPR applies to producers (including manufacturers, importers, and sellers) of plastic packaging and selected plastic products. Reporting covers data for the 2024 calendar year, with submissions due by 29 September 2025.

The ECCC’s detailed Phase 1 reporting guidance helped companies determine their obligations, identify applicable data categories, and calculate quantities based on resin and product types.

Producers and service providers must report on all plastics placed on the market, as well as those that are collected, reused, repaired, remanufactured, refurbished, recycled, composted, incinerated, or landfilled. They must also disclose the amount of plastic waste generated on their industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) premises.

Reporting under the FPR is mandatory under CEPA, and non-compliance may result in enforcement measures.

Extension Possibility under CEPA 46(6)

Under subsection 46(6) of CEPA, the Minister of the Environment may extend the reporting date set out in a Section 46 Notice, provided that a written request is submitted before the applicable deadline. While this option is no longer available for the 2024 reporting cycle, similar provisions may apply in future phases of the Federal Plastics Registry.

Future Phases and Ongoing Compliance

The Registry is being implemented gradually to expand its scope.

• Phase 2 (reporting in 2026) will extend obligations to resin manufacturers and importers, as well as to producers of additional plastic categories not covered in Phase 1. These include construction materials, textiles, and agricultural plastics.
• Phase 3 (planned for after 2026) is expected to incorporate recyclers, waste management operators, and other service providers, capturing the movement of plastics from production to recovery and final disposal.

Each new phase builds on previously collected data, enabling the ECCC to develop a comprehensive national dataset covering the full lifecycle of plastics.

By standardizing data collection across Canada, the Registry will also help to align federal and provincial EPR programs, closing existing information gaps and supporting evidence-based policy decisions.

The ECCC encourages businesses to review the current guidance and prepare for future annual submissions as Canada advances towards its zero plastic waste target by 2030.

The Government of Canada has taken a significant step toward addressing the risks posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” On September 26, 202...

The Government of Canada has taken a significant step toward addressing the risks posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” On September 26, 2025, Environment and Climate Change Canada launched a consultation on Phase 1 of its PFAS Risk Management Plan. This phase focuses on firefighting foams that remain one of the largest sources of contamination.

Why PFAS Are a Concern

PFAS are synthetic chemicals valued for their resistance to heat, oil, and water. However, these same properties make them extremely persistent in the environment. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to negative health impacts, including liver and kidney damage, thyroid dysfunction, immune suppression, and developmental issues. In wildlife, PFAS have been shown to harm reproduction, growth, and immune functions, threatening ecosystems and biodiversity.

Phase 1: Focus on Firefighting Foams

The first phase of the government’s action plan specifically targets aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs), which are widely used in civil and military aviation, shipping, and the petroleum and chemical sectors. While these foams are highly effective at extinguishing flammable liquid fires, they are also a major source of PFAS pollution in drinking water and soil. Canada’s proposed measures aim to eliminate the remaining unregulated uses of these foams while promoting the adoption of safer alternatives.

A Multi-Phase Risk Management Strategy

Canada is implementing a three-phase approach to reduce PFAS risks.

●      Phase 1: Address PFAS in firefighting foams not yet covered by regulations.

●      Phase 2: Restrict PFAS in non-essential uses, particularly in consumer products.

●      Phase 3: Assess critical uses of PFAS where no viable alternatives exist, with the goal of identifying safe substitutes in the long term.

This class-based approach ensures that one harmful PFAS is not simply replaced by another with similar toxic properties.

Regulatory Framework Under CEPA

The risk management measures are being developed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). By adding PFAS (excluding fluoropolymers) to Schedule 1, Part 2, the government can regulate the entire class of chemicals. Canada already restricts several PFAS through the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, and new updates proposed in 2022 aim to further tighten controls, including the phase-out of C8 AFFF foams with limited exemptions for critical applications.

Government Position

According to Julie Dabrusin, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the proposed phase-out will prevent future contamination and drive the transition to effective alternatives. Marjorie Michel, the Minister of Health, emphasized that these actions are necessary to protect Canadians today and for future generations.

Public Consultation and Next Steps

The consultation on Phase 1 is open until November 25, 2025. Feedback from industry, civil society, and the public will guide the development of new regulations. Once finalized, these measures will significantly reduce PFAS releases into the environment and encourage the shift toward safer firefighting technologies.

zThe Government of Canada has released an update on the Phosphoric Acid Derivatives Group, a set of substances assessed under the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The latest publication provides th...

zThe Government of Canada has released an update on the Phosphoric Acid Derivatives Group, a set of substances assessed under the Chemicals Management Plan (CMP). The latest publication provides the final conclusions for three priority substances, outlining their potential health and environmental impacts, as well as the regulatory actions being taken under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA).

The Phosphoric Acid Derivatives assessment forms part of the third phase of the CMP, a federal program designed to systematically evaluate substances on the Domestic Substances List (DSL). While some substances from this group were determined to have minimal exposure and low risk, the targeted regulatory action on trixylyl phosphate ensures that future increases in exposure will be carefully managed.

Substances Under Review

The group includes six substances, with three undergoing a full screening assessment:

• Trixylyl phosphate (CAS RN 25155-23-1)
• Oleyl phosphate (CAS RN 37310-83-1)
• Phosphorous trichloride reaction products with 1,1-biphenyl and 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenol (CAS RN 119345-01-6)

Regulatory Action on Trixylyl Phosphate

Although trixylyl phosphate is not currently considered harmful at existing exposure levels. However, it has been associated with potential reproductive system effects. Due to this concern, the government has taken a precautionary step by applying the Significant New Activity (SNAc) provisions of CEPA. This means that any proposed new manufacture, import, or use of trixylyl phosphate must be reported and evaluated by regulators before it can proceed.

Substances of Lower Concern

The assessment concluded that no immediate regulatory action is required for oleyl phosphate and the phosphorous trichloride reaction products. These substances are not expected to pose significant risks to health or the environment at current levels of use.

Timeline of Key Milestones

• July 13, 2019: Draft screening assessment published for public comment.
• December 19, 2020: The final screening assessment was released and the government announced its intent to apply SNAc provisions to trixylyl phosphate.
• March 26, 2025: The Canada Gazette publication officially amended the Domestic Substances List (DSL) to apply SNAc provisions to trixylyl phosphate.