Non-Compliant Cylinders Pose Serious Risks

Transport Canada is warning the public about non-compliant gas cylinders, especially those found in welding kits sold online. These cylinders are often designed to hold acetylene (UN1001) and oxygen (UN1072)—two gases that are highly flammable or oxidizing and extremely dangerous if the cylinders leak or rupture.

Why This Matters

Many of these imported cylinders do not meet Canadian safety standards. They may not have been properly manufactured, inspected, or tested—meaning they pose a serious risk of fire, explosion, injury, or even death.

Using or transporting non-compliant cylinders is not only dangerous but illegal under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations.

What You Need to Know

If you’re importing cylinders or aerosol cans into Canada, make sure they meet one of these approved standards:

CSA B340: For cylinders marked with TC, DOT, CTC, CRC, BTC, or ICC.
CSA B342: For UN cylinders marked with CAN (Canada) or USA (United States).

All compliant cylinders must have permanent, legible markings. If the markings aren’t there, it’s not compliant—and it’s not safe.

What About Aerosol Cans?

Similar rules apply to aerosol containers. These must meet CGSB-43.123 standards and cannot contain banned substances like certain CFCs or high-GWP HFCs. U.S.-made aerosol cans may be accepted if filled according to Canadian rules.

The Bottom Line

Before importing gas cylinders or aerosol cans:

Check for proper compliance markings.
Avoid kits or products that don’t list cylinder specifications.
Don’t assume online listings follow Canadian law.

Failure to comply could lead to fines, legal action, or serious safety incidents. For more information, visit the Transport Canada website.

See attached Transport Canada Warning for Non-compliant cylinders in welding kits.

If you have questions about the packaging standards and how to comply with them, contact ICC Compliance Center at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help.