On February 14, 2026, Health Canada officially launched a 60-day public consultation on the draft "Code of Practice for Methanone, Diphenyl- (Benzophenone) in Consumer Paints, Stains and/or Coatings Products."
Background
Benzophenone is a potential carcinogen associated with liver and kidney damage as well as endocrine disruption. Human exposure can occur through skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion. Due to its hazards to human and animal health, it has been listed as a toxic substance under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). Based on the Phase 3 screening assessment under Canada's Chemicals Management Plan (CMP), benzophenone has been confirmed to pose risks to human health. Major exposure sources include nail polish, interior and exterior paints, and colorants. Benzophenone is already listed as a restricted ingredient on Canada's Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist, with a maximum permitted concentration of 3%.
Key Draft Provisions
- Concentration limit: Benzophenone concentrations in consumer paints, stains, and/or coating products shall not exceed 2,000 mg/kg (i.e., 0.2% w/w).
- Applicability: Applies to manufacturers or importers of consumer paint products in Canada containing more than 0.2% w/w benzophenone.
- Record keeping: Entities adopting the code must maintain electronic or paper records for at least 6 years.
- Reporting requirements: Initial reports must be submitted by March 31 of the year following the code's adoption, with subsequent reports required every three years.
Health Canada encourages all stakeholders to submit written comments by April 15, 2026, via email at: chemicalsubstanceschimiques@hc-sc.gc.ca.
