Should Lithium-Ion Batteries in Consumer Products Meet New Safety Standards?
Official title: Consultation: Proposed new requirements for lithium-ion batteries and consumer products containing lithium-ion batteries under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act
Health Canada wants to make lithium-ion batteries safer. These batteries power everything from phones to e-bikes—but they can overheat, catch fire, or explode. The government is considering mandatory safety requirements for batteries and the products that use them.
Why This Matters
Got a phone, laptop, e-bike, or power tool? They all use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries have caused house fires and injuries when they malfunction. New rules could mean safer products on store shelves—and clearer warnings when something goes wrong.
What Could Change
New regulations under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act could require lithium-ion batteries to meet specific safety standards before being sold. Manufacturers and importers may need to test and certify their products. This could affect everything from cheap electronics to premium e-bikes.
Key Issues
- What safety standards should lithium-ion batteries meet?
- Should requirements apply to batteries, the products containing them, or both?
- How would mandatory requirements affect manufacturers, importers, and retailers?
How to Participate
- Read the Notice of Intent – Proposed new requirements for lithium-ion batteries and consumer products containing lithium-ion batteries to understand what Health Canada is proposing.
- Complete the online questionnaire to share your feedback with Health Canada.
- Alternatively, request a copy of the questionnaire by email at ccpsa-lcspc@hc-sc.gc.ca and send your responses.