Health Minister Patty Hajdu has signed an interim order regulating UV radiation-emitting and ozone-generating devices under the Pest Control Products Act, effective June 7, 2021.
According to Health Canada, since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a significant increase in the sale and use of UV and ozone-generating devices in Canada claiming to control or kill bacteria and viruses (including SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19) on surfaces and objects, and in water and air. These devices can pose serious health and safety concerns. For instance, depending on the UV wavelength, intensity, and duration of radiation exposure, exposure to ultraviolet light from these devices can result in serious injuries, including severe burns to the skin and eyes. Similarly, inhaling ozone can lead to decreased lung function, irritation of respiratory pathways, and inflammation of pulmonary tissues as well as irreversible lung damage leading to higher susceptibility of respiratory infections.
To get more information on what type of UV radiation-emitting or ozone-generating devices (used to disinfect or sanitize surfaces and objects) are subject to this interim order, please visit Health Canada’s questions and answers or contact Health Canada.
