Environment and Climate change Canada wishes to share the following information regarding Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Certain Products Regulations compliance.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are identified as toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act as they contribute to ground-level ozone and particulate matter, which are the two main components of smog. By helping your clients comply with the Regulations, you are contributing to the protection of the health of Canadians and the environment.
The Regulations set maximum VOC concentrations and emission potentials for approximately 130 categories of products that are manufactured in or imported into Canada. The products can be used in households and in institutional, industrial and commercial activities. The following are some examples of categories of products that must meet the limits specified in the Regulations:
• Personal care products (e.g. deodorant, hairspray, etc.);
• Automotive and household maintenance products (e.g. glass and hard-surface cleaners, brake cleaners, etc.);
• Adhesives, adhesives removers, sealants and caulks; and
• Other miscellaneous products (e.g. anti-static products, non-stick aerosol cooking sprays, etc.).
The full list of categories and subcategories of products is presented in Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of the Regulations. The Regulations do not apply to products designed to be used solely in a manufacturing or processing activity.
New VOC limits came into effect on January 1, 2024 for all regulated product categories except disinfectants.
Concentration limits for disinfectant products will come into effect on January 1, 2025.
We invite you to share the following resources with your clients so that they can determine the applicability of the Regulations, learn about the product categories and regulatory requirements, and if applicable, find suitable alternative compliance options.
• The certain products and volatile organic compounds webpage provides information on the Regulations including a factsheet, laboratory testing method and alternative compliance options, including application forms.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Produits-Products@ec.gc.ca.
Chemical Production and Products Division
Environment and Climate Change Canada
351 Saint-Joseph Boulevard, 9th Floor
Gatineau QC K1A 0H3
Email: Produits-Products@ec.gc.ca