Frequently Asked Questions - Toys Regulations
This document is an unofficial summary of the Regulations. It is not intended to substitute for, supersede or limit the requirements under the applicable legislation. In case of any discrepancy between this summary and the legislation, the legislation will prevail.
What is the purpose of this regulation?
The Toys Regulations under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) help protect the health and safety of children, by setting out mandatory safety requirements for children's toys and related products manufactured, advertised, imported or sold in Canada.
What are the key elements of this regulation?
The Toys Regulations address a wide range of hazards associated with children's toys, and set out requirements to protect children from a variety of hazards, including:
mechanical (such as choking, strangulation, suffocation, lacerations and punctures)
- flammability (such as fire and burns)
- toxicological (such as poisoning)
- electrical (such as electrocution and shock)
- thermal (burns)
The Toys Regulations also set out specific test methods and criteria.
A guidance document outlining safety requirements and Health Canada policy for toys in Canada is available on Health Canada's Website: Industry Guide to Health Canada's Safety Requirements for Children's Toys and Related Products.
How does this regulation affect Canadian businesses?
It is the responsibility of industry members to ensure compliance with the Toys Regulations.
Testing a toy against the requirements of the Toys Regulations and other applicable regulations for toys under the CCPSA is a means of verifying compliance with these requirements. While not mandated, such testing should be performed by industry members prior to marketing a toy in Canada.
The Toys Regulations do not require any regulatory authorizations or contain reporting requirements. However, there are incident reporting requirements under the CCPSA. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the CCPSA are available on Health Canada's website.
What is the timeline for implementation?
The Toys Regulations came into force in 1970 under the Hazardous Products Act.
The CCPSA, which came into force in 2011, replaced Part I and Schedule I to the Hazardous Products Act.
Where can I get more information on the Toys Regulations?
Consumer Product Safety Program
Email: CPS-SPC@hc-sc.gc.ca
Toll-free: 1-866-662-0666 (Calls will be routed to the nearest Consumer Product Safety Office.)
Additional information for industry on the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) and its requirements is available on Health Canada's Website.
For More Information
To learn about upcoming or ongoing consultations on proposed federal regulations, visit the Canada Gazette and Consulting with Canadians websites.