Simplifying the Concept of CCCR

The concept of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling (GHS) of hazardous chemicals was taken up at the behest of the United Nations. This was done to ensure that each chemical of hazardous nature was properly documented and labeled in order to ensure safety to health and the environment. The MSDS or Material Safety Data Sheets was to be one of the methods of such labeling. The option of selecting the method of labeling was left to the member country. Regulatory bodies were appointed for the MSDS as well as competent agencies. Thereafter, the CCCR or Canadian Consumer Label Review was drawn up in Canada for all hazardous chemicals sold in retail in Canada.

CCCR 2001 stipulates that all chemical substances of hazardous nature marketed in Canada will be covered by this regulation with the exclusion of those products that are already covered by another Canadian legislation. These chemicals could be an explosive, a medicine, a nuclear substance, a cosmetic or a substance use for pest control. The CCCR requires that proper labeling be adopted for each of these designated chemical substances. The identity of the product was to be spelt out in both English and French. The net quantity, the name and address of the dealer as well as the complete postal address of the place where the main business was located were all required to be mentioned on the label. Also to be mentioned were the hazard symbol and the first aid directions, the degree of toxicity and inflammability.