SOR/2016-188 - Phthalates Regulation

Primary Objective: 

To restrict the use of phthalate-based plasticizers in children's products, mitigate the risk of endocrine disruption, and safeguard the health of children. -

Standard Definition:

SOR/2016-188 is a mandatory chemical restriction regulation under the CCPSA framework, applicable to children's products containing soft plastic or coatings, including children's learning items (pencil cases, backpacks), toys, cribs, strollers, etc. It exempts products made of purely paper, wood, or other materials without soft plastic/coatings. It serves as the core basis for chemical compliance in children's products in Canada. -

Testing and Certification Requirements:

Products must undergo testing by a third-party laboratory, with the following core requirements: - Restricted substances: DEHP, DBP, BBP - Total content  0.1% (1000 mg/kg); -

Specific restrictions:For toys and consumable products for children under 3 years old, DINP, DIDP, DNOP content must meet safety limits; -

Applicability: Covers PVC-based stationery, coated fabric products, plastic utensils, vinyl components of strollers, etc.; -

Marking requirements: Products with soft plastic components must include a phthalate compliance statement on the packaging or instructions, labeled in both English and French. Meeting these requirements is aprerequisite for children's products containing soft plastic to enter the Canadian market.