NEW VOC
Regulations for Chemical Products

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemical compounds that evaporate at room temperature and can be emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. This is due to their high vapour pressure, low boiling point and low water solubility. There are some naturally occurring VOCs, but many are man-made chemicals that are used in the manufacture of paints, pharmaceuticals and refrigerants. VOCs are believed to cause short- and long-term harm to human health and the environment.

This refers to the amount of volatile organic compounds that are in a product formulation. It is measured and expressed as a percentage of the product’s net weight.

This varies considerably by product group. All Wurth formulations have been carefully categorized to ensure the application aligns with the regulation. For some product categories, the maximum VOC concentrations are only being adjusted slightly while other categories are facing major reductions.

The government has determined that VOCs are a major component in the formation of ground-level ozone, which contributes to the formation of smog. The objective of the regulations is to protect the environment and the health of Canadians from the effects of air pollution by reducing VOC emissions.

Yes. All manufacturers, importers and distributors of applicable chemical products must follow the regulations.

Not right away! Wurth Canada has significantly increased its supply of affect products so that we can continue to serve customers who prefer the original formulations until these reserve inventories are depleted. 

The VOC regulations have a “sell through clause” that allows distributors to keep selling products manufactured or imported into Canada by December 31, 2023. There is no quantity limit which means we can continue to sell these products until our inventory supply is gone. We will only be selling original formulations if the product was received by us by December 31.

No, many of our chemical products are not affected by the new VOC regulations. Only about 100 products sold by Wurth Canada fall into the covered categories, including some brake cleaners, lubricants & greases, glass cleaners, rust proofing & rust remover, cutting oils & gels and silicones.

Yes, we have been busy developing and testing a new line of chemicals that will fall within the lower VOC concentration limits. After rigorous consumer testing, products are performing at the same level or better than the original. Wurth Canada is also investing in advanced technologies for a safer and better world. We will be launching new proprietary products that are within VOC concentration limits yet deliver the unsurpassed performance our customers expect.

We have been working diligently to understand the new VOC regulations and prepare for the VOC concentration limits on our products that come into effect in January 2024. Every product that Wurth Canada sells, distributes or otherwise provides to Canadian businesses are compliant with applicable regulations.

No. The purchase, storage and use of these chemicals is permitted under the new regulations. The manufacturer, importer or distributor must ensure the product was manufactured or imported before January 2024.

Spray paints are not included in the chemical categories listed in the regulations. There won’t be any changes in the availability or formulation of Wurth Canada’s spray paints based on VOC concentration limits.

For some product categories, the VOC limits will be adjusted only slightly. In other categories, they'll be reduced significantly. We're taking this opportunity to improve formulations. And we're not compromising on safety or quality. After rigorous consumer testing, many replacement products perform at the same level or better than the original. However, performance often depends on application. Some products may have different directions for use than you are used to. A new set of instructions will be provided with the product. Your Wurth sales representative will review this information with you.

Wurth Canada cares about the environment and we are committed to reducing the use of toxic and hazardous products. Shop our existing line of eco products.

Wurth Canada has a large stock of products with original formulations available for sale into next year and beyond. Customers should consider their ability to store chemical products, as well as important health & safety guidelines and expiry dates.

Yes, as Wurth Canada depletes inventory of higher VOC formulations the products will be discontinued.

Recommended replacements will be highlighted on our eShop for easy navigation, or talk with your Wurth Canada Sales Representative for more information.

Contact your dedicated National Account Manager or [email protected].

Visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the regulations.