The Canadian government has issued a proposal that would strengthen regulatory limits on lead and cadmium in toys and other products intended for use by children. These two minerals are toxic by nature; although small doses are acceptable for adults, small children can suffer significant health issues if exposed.
With that in mind, Health Canada has determined which products children have the most contact with, and what levels of the minerals must be present to cause health issues. The proposal focuses on levels of lead and cadmium in consumer products; under the new regulations, current limits on lead would be more strict. Meanwhile, regulatory limits would be set in place for the maximum levels of cadmium in children’s jewelry.
Health Canada is working to tighten regulations on these materials. Under the Canada Consumer Products Safety Act (CCPSA), the proposed amendments would seriously restrict the amounts of lead and cadmium that can legally appear in consumer products.
The proposal focuses primarily on products used by children, and would include limits on products such as:
- Toys marketed to children age 3-14;
- Clothing and accessories marketed to children, particularly jewelry; and
- Products marketed primarily to children under the age of 4 (particularly when these products are mainly related to hygiene, sleep, transportation of the child, or relaxation).
Read a copy of the proposed rule. The Canadian Department of Health will accept comments on the proposal through February 15, 2017.
