Pesticide Inspections Database Launched in Canada
Information on inspections of companies that manufacture pest control products are now available to the public online, and Canadians can search the Pest Control Registrant Inspections Database for specific inspection findings, summary report cards from inspections, and information about companies' history of compliance with the Pest Control Products Act.
Health Canada announced Sept. 30 it has launched a new database of inspections of pesticide companies, part of the Government of Canada's commitment to increased transparency so the public will be protected from unsafe products. Information on inspections of companies that manufacture pest control products are now available to the public online, and Canadians can search the Pest Control Registrant Inspections Database for specific inspection findings, summary report cards from inspections, and information about companies' history of compliance with the Pest Control Products Act and its Regulations.
The launch "is a milestone under Health Canada's Regulatory Transparency and Openness Framework and Action Plan 2015-2018," according to the government, which stated that the plan made specific commitments to provide more information about Health Canada's health and safety decision-making, including inspection outcomes and inspection ratings.
Health Canada also launched a Drug and Health Product Inspections Database in April 2015. The plan outlines steps Health Canada is taking to continually improve public access to timely, useful, and relevant health and safety information while respecting privacy, confidentiality, and security concerns.
When conducting inspections of pest control product manufacturers, inspectors check facilities, take samples for testing, and examine documents, such as sales and incident reports. If a risk to health or the environment is identified during an inspection, companies are required to take corrective actions.
"Our government is committed to helping Canadians make informed decisions about the products they buy and use, including pesticides. By providing information from pesticide manufacturers in a publicly searchable way, the Pest Control Registrant Inspections Database can also help Canadians gain a better understanding of how Health Canada conducts inspections and what actions the department takes if requirements are not being met," said Minister of Health Jane Philpott.