SG 190/25
Health Canada has proposed new regulatory requirements for lithium-ion batteries and consumer products containing them under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA).
The CCPSA governs the safety of consumer products sold, imported or advertised in Canada. Under the CCPSA:
- Products must not pose an unreasonable danger to human health and safety
- Health Canada has authority to act when products present risks
- Manufacturers, importers and retailers share responsibility for compliance
In response to emerging safety concerns, Health Canada has proposed introducing lithium-ion battery-specific technical requirements, instead of relying on general hazard provisions.
The proposed requirements aim to address hazards such as:
- Overheating
- Thermal runaway
- Electrical short circuits
- Fire and explosion during use, charging or storage
The scope of the proposal is intentionally broad and may include:
- Consumer electronics
- Battery-powered household products
- Light electric vehicles (eBikes, scooters)
- Toys and recreational products
- Tools and equipment intended for consumer use
If a product contains a lithium-ion battery and is sold to consumers in Canada, it is likely to fall within scope.
Rather than creating entirely new test methods, Health Canada intends to rely on recognized international lithium-ion battery safety standards as benchmarks for compliance.
For manufacturers, this means:
- Products designed and tested to recognized standards are better positioned to demonstrate regulatory compliance, such as CSA C22.2 No. 62133-2, CSA C22.2 No. 62133-1 or equivalent standards
- Third-party testing and certification may become a practical and efficient pathway to demonstrating conformity through SCC-approved and recognized third-party laboratories
- Documentation, traceability and test evidence will play an increasingly critical role in product approval and market access
This approach aligns Canada with global regulatory trends already seen in the US, EU and other major markets.
Through comprehensive independent assessment and verification solutions, we support manufacturers with an integrated approach that covers:
- Preliminary design reviews and gap assessments
- Battery and system-level testing
- Certification to recognized international standards
- Regulatory guidance across global markets
Addressing lithium-ion battery safety early in product design helps reduce safety risks, protects brand reputation and maintains market access.
Health Canada is accepting feedback during the pre-consultation period from December 2, 2025, to February 14, 2026.
Our comprehensive total solution services for electrical and electronic products, delivered through a global network of accredited testing laboratories, help manufacturers and retailers access expert support at every stage of the product life cycle – from design and production to regulatory compliance, imports and exports. Contact us to learn more, or visit our website. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.
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