Temporary Changes and Legislative Requirements
In order to address a possible shortage of cleaning supplies containing chemicals effective against the COVID-19 virus in Canada, Health Canada has put in place an interim policy that will allow quicker imports of products from the United States (U. S.).
The interim policy applies to the following types of products imported from the United States only:
- cleaning products used mainly to clean, bleach or scour surfaces (but not products used to polish, protect or improve the appearance of surfaces)
- laundry and dishwashing products used mainly to clean (but not fabric softeners or other such products)
These products may be sold to Canadian work places with U.S. labelling and safety data sheets (SDS). Important information will still be present, but the product labelling and SDS may appear different.
Similar temporary measures are already in place for certain imported consumer health products, including cleaning and hygiene products.
Also in News
Limited Quantity Mark Labels are now mandatory
Until December 31, 2020, instead of the international mark, the means of containment may display:
- The words "Limited Quantity" or "quantité limitée";
- The abbreviation "Ltd. Qty." or "quant. ltée";
- The words "Consumer Commodity" or "bien de consommation";
As of January 1st, 2021, the new international safety mark for “LTD QTY” shipments by ground transport in Canada must display this label.
2020 IMDG Code Compliance Deadline Delayed
IMO announced that mandatory compliance with the forthcoming IMDG Codeamendment will start on June 1, 2022.
IMO plans to release Amendment 40–20 in early 2021. The new Code may be applied voluntarily after January 1, 2021.
Under normal conditions, Amendment 40-20 would have been published in Fall 2020. Compliance with a new IMDG Code amendment is voluntary in the first year following publication (i.e., 2021) and mandatory in the second year following publication (i.e., after January 1, 2022).
Limited Quantity Mark Now Mandatory
As of January 1st, 2021, the new international safety mark for “LTD QTY” shipments by ground transport in Canada must display this label.
It is important to make sure you and your employees understand when a limited quantity label is required and why. This will avoid refused shipments and protect your business from infractions.