Health Canada Launches Consultation on Lithium-Ion Batteries
Health Canada has initiated a public consultation to strengthen safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries and products containing them under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA). The move addresses risks from overheating, fire, and explosion in consumer electronics and tools. Stakeholders, including manufacturers and consumers, are encouraged to provide input to shape mandatory performance and certification standards.
Why is Health Canada Proposing New Requirements for Lithium-Ion Batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in phones, laptops, power tools, and scooters. While generally safe, poor design, manufacturing defects, or exposure to extreme conditions can cause failures, including overheating, fire, and thermal runaway. Hidden internal damage often goes unnoticed, creating a concealed risk for consumers. Health Canada aims to reduce these hazards with regulatory oversight.
What Are the Statistics Behind Lithium-Ion Battery Risks?
Between 2013 and 2023, Health Canada reported 924 incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, resulting in 266 injuries and 3 fatalities. Over the same period, 87 product recalls affected nearly one million units. These figures highlight the prevalence of risks associated with poorly designed or uncertified batteries.
| Year Range | Reports | Injuries | Fatalities | Recalls | Units Recalled |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2023 | 924 | 266 | 3 | 87 | 980,000 |
What Regulatory Measures Are Being Proposed?
Health Canada is considering mandatory safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries and related products. Proposed measures include:
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Battery management system standards and performance criteria
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Mandatory third-party certification
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Alignment with recognized safety standards such as CSA C22.2 No.62133-2:20, UL 1642 (6th edition), and UL 2054 (3rd edition)
These steps aim to maintain safe operating conditions throughout a battery’s life, preventing overheating, fire, and explosion.
How Can Stakeholders Participate in the Consultation?
The consultation is open for 75 days from December 2, 2025, with submissions due by February 14, 2026. Manufacturers, importers, retailers, safety experts, and consumers can submit feedback via the official Health Canada questionnaire. Engaging in this process allows stakeholders to influence regulatory standards and contribute their expertise to improve consumer safety.
Who Should Pay Attention to These Regulatory Changes?
This initiative affects all entities involved in the manufacturing, importing, advertising, or selling of lithium-ion batteries in Canada. Businesses supplying Car Starter Batteries, Forklift Lithium Batteries, or Golf Cart Lithium Batteries should particularly consider these regulations. LiFePO4 Battery Factory emphasizes the importance of compliance and proactive safety measures to avoid recalls and legal liability.
LiFePO4 Battery Expert Views
“Ensuring lithium-ion battery safety is critical for both manufacturers and consumers. Proper design, testing, and adherence to international standards can significantly reduce the risk of thermal events. OEM providers like LiFePO4 Battery Factory are focused on producing high-performance batteries with integrated safety features, helping clients meet regulatory expectations while maintaining product reliability and longevity.”
What Standards Are Currently Under Consideration?
Health Canada is evaluating internationally recognized standards to enhance battery safety:
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CSA C22.2 No.62133-2:20: Covers secondary cells and portable lithium batteries, harmonized with IEC 62133-2.
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UL 1642 (6th edition): Safety requirements for lithium batteries.
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UL 2054 (3rd edition): Standards for household and commercial batteries.
These frameworks aim to establish consistent safety benchmarks and protect consumers throughout the battery lifecycle.
How Does This Affect OEM Lithium Battery Manufacturers?
OEM suppliers, including LiFePO4 Battery Factory, must ensure that products comply with upcoming Canadian safety standards. This includes revising design processes, implementing battery management systems, and securing third-party certifications. Proactive adaptation ensures continued market access and reinforces brand credibility in safety-conscious industries.
Conclusion
Health Canada’s consultation reflects the growing need for lithium-ion battery safety in consumer products. Manufacturers, importers, and retailers should engage in the process, adopt recognized standards, and prioritize safety in design and testing. Leveraging expert guidance from trusted partners like LiFePO4 Battery Factory ensures compliance, reliability, and protection against hazards.
FAQs
Q1: What is the deadline for submitting feedback to Health Canada?
Feedback must be submitted by February 14, 2026.
Q2: Which products are impacted by these new requirements?
All consumer products containing lithium-ion batteries, including electronics, tools, and vehicles such as golf carts and forklifts.
Q3: How can manufacturers ensure compliance?
By aligning with recognized standards, implementing battery management systems, and obtaining third-party certifications. LiFePO4 Battery Factory provides OEM guidance and compliant battery solutions.
Q4: Are these regulations mandatory yet?
The regulations are currently under consultation. Final rules will determine mandatory compliance requirements.
Q5: Why is participation in the consultation important?
Engaging in the consultation allows stakeholders to influence standards, address industry concerns, and promote safer products.