Call for Input

Proposed Integrated Framework for the Health-Related Components of Categorization of the Domestic Substances List under CEPA 1999

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) requires categorization of the approximately 23,000 substances on the Domestic Substances List (DSL) prior to a legally mandated deadline of September 14, 2006. This Proposed Integrated Framework for the Health-Related Components of Categorization of the Domestic Substances List under CEPA 1999 outlines an integrated approach to categorization of substances on the DSL with respect to both the "greatest potential for exposure" (GPE) and "inherently toxic" to humans (IThuman). It is being released for comment to solicit input on both technical and management aspects relevant to its refinement and completion.

The proposal is composed of six parts:

Part A - Introduction & Context, which provides background information and context on development of the integrated framework
Part B - Proposed Integrated Framework, which describes the proposed integrated framework and its operationalization
Part C - Tools Developed for the Integrated Framework, which provides information on the tools developed for exposure assessment and hazard identification
Part D - Draft Maximal List, which provides information on substances being considered further for DSL categorization and screening assessment
Part E - Next Steps, which outlines the next steps for implementing the integrated framework
Part F - Documentation, which outlines additional information relevant to the proposed integrated framework

This is the second proposal issued for public comment related to Health Canada’s responsibilities for categorization of the DSL under CEPA 1999. The final integrated framework for the health-related components of categorization of the DSL will be released in late 2005.

Views and suggestions are currently invited on all aspects of the proposal. The RCEN Toxics Caucus is preparing an ENGO submission; if anyone is interested in providing comments for consideration please contact Fe de Leon at the Canadian Environmental Law Association. The Toxics Caucus will circulate a draft of the ENGO paper for review in July and will finalize the report in August (as well as seek sign on). Alternatively, written comments may be submitted directly to Health Canada prior to August 30, 2005 via e-mail to: ExSD@hc-sc.gc.ca, or via surface mail to: Existing Substances Division, Environmental Contaminants Bureau, Health Canada, Environmental Health Centre, Room 145, Tunney's Pasture, Postal Locator: 0801C2, Ottawa, ON K1A 0L2.

Please note: Comments provided without the name and coordinates of the author or the organization (if applicable) will not be considered. The comments and identity of the author or the organization (but not the coordinates) may be made publicly available.

Paper copies of this proposal may also be requested from: ExSD@hc-sc.gc.ca