Forward Regulatory Plan 2021-2023: Regulations Amending the Radiation Emitting Devices Regulations Pertaining to Laser Devices
Title of Regulatory Initiative
Regulations Amending the Radiation Emitting Devices Regulations Pertaining to Laser Devices
Enabling Act
Radiation Emitting Devices Act
Description
Health Canada is proposing to amend the Radiation Emitting Devices Regulations pertaining to lasers to address health risks and injuries to Canadians from these products.
The proposed amendments would align Canada's regulations with international standards, specifically the International Electrotechnical Commission’s "IEC 60825-1, Safety of Laser Products - Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements, Ed. 3.0, 2014”. This standard is used or referenced by Canada’s key trading partners.
The amended regulations would enhance the safety of laser products imported, sold, leased and advertised in Canada by requiring appropriate laser warning labels and establishing minimum design safety features for specific laser classes/hazard levels.
This regulatory initiative is part of Health Canada’s Regulatory Stock Review Plan
Regulatory cooperation efforts (domestic and international)
This proposal is not part of a formal regulatory cooperation work plan.
Since the laser regulations were last amended, a new international standard for laser products (IEC 60825-1) has become available.
Canada’s major trading partners are in the process of harmonizing or have already harmonized with this international standard.
Adoption of IEC 60825-1 standard would align Canada with the regulatory standard used internationally.
Potential impacts on Canadians, including businesses
The proposed amendments would increase public protection from accidental or inadvertent exposure to laser emissions by requiring warning labels on how to mitigate laser hazards. It would also require manufacturers to integrate safety controls/features into the laser devices.
While there are expected impacts on industry, they are anticipated to be minimal due to efforts to align with the international standard and reduce regulatory burden.
Consultations
Health Canada intends to undertake an online public consultation process on this proposal by June 2021.
Canadians will have the opportunity to provide comments on the regulatory proposal during the Canada Gazette, Part I, public comment period, which is expected to take place in spring 2022 and last 75 days.
Further information
Additional information on this proposal can be requested from the departmental contact.
Departmental contact information
Tara Bower
Director
Environmental and Radiation Health Sciences Directorate
Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch
Health Canada
Telephone: 613-957-6371
Email: hc.erhsdgeneral-dssergenerale.sc@canada.ca@canada.ca
Date the regulatory initiative was first included in the Forward Regulatory
February 2021
Consult Health Canada's acts and regulations web page for:
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Consult the following for links to the Cabinet Directive on Regulation and supporting policies and guidance, and for information on government-wide regulatory initiatives implemented by departments and agencies across the Government of Canada:
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