What to do if you suspect refrigerant was imported into Canada illegally?
The Ozone Depleting Substances and Halocarbons Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR) are the regulations that allow Canada to meet its international obligations under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The ODSHAR sets out rules concerning ozone-depleting substances and HFCs, as well as certain products designed to contain these substances.
It is prohibited to import CFCs, HCFC or HFCs into Canada without an authorization from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). The ODSHAR also limits the import and manufacture of many products containing these substances such as certain refrigeration equipment, foams, and aerosols.
Please be aware of any illegal products and cylinders being offered, especially if the price is ‘too good to be true’, as it usually is. Be alert of any possible illegal products and do your due diligence before purchasing refrigerants to ensure the requirements of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations have been met. Refrigerants sold in a cylinder without the proper TDG labelling is a ‘red flag’. Proper labelling of refrigerant cylinders is important to ensure safe handling. Illegal activity affects us all.
If you suspect non-compliance with the ODSHAR, such as unauthorized imports of refrigerants or controlled products, please contact the Halocarbons Management Team by e-mail: halocarbures-halocarbons@ec.gc.ca or telephone: 819-938-4228.
The Halocarbon Management Team will refer any information of suspected non-compliance to Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC’s) Enforcement Branch to conduct further investigations on the matter. ECCC’s Enforcement Branch is responsible for enforcing the ODSHAR. The Enforcement Branch investigates suspected non-compliance and may pursue enforcement measures against offenders.
If you have any questions, please contact Kathleen O’Malley, Manager, Environmental Services at komalley@hrai.ca or call 905-602-4700.
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