Why Every SDS in Canada MUST Be Bilingual

The Common Misconception

There’s a common misconception circulating in the chemical industry: If a product isn’t headed to Quebec, the SDS doesn’t need to be in French.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

A Federal Requirement—Not a Provincial One

Canada’s bilingual SDS requirement has always been a federal rule—meaning it applies across the entire country, regardless of the province where the product is sold or used. Whether your customers are in Quebec, British Columbia, Newfoundland or anywhere in between, every Safety Data Sheet must be available in both English and French.

“If No One Asks for French, It’s Not Required”—Wrong

Many international companies assume that if a distributor or client doesn’t ask for French, then it isn’t required. But under Canadian law, the obligation exists whether or not anyone requests it.

What the Regulations Actually Say

Bilingual SDS and Label Requirements

Supplier SDSs and labels must be bilingual, either as one combined document or as two unilingual versions that together make up the bilingual requirement.

Hazardous Products Regulations: Section 6.2

The Hazardous Products Regulations, Section 6.2(1), clearly states:

6.2 (1) The information elements provided on a safety data sheet and on a label must be in both official languages of Canada.

(2)(a) For SDSs, this can be a single bilingual document or two unilingual parts that together form one bilingual SDS.
(b) Labels may follow the same format – either a single bilingual label or two unilingual parts that constitute one bilingual label.

Need Help Meeting the Requirement?

We Make Bilingual Compliance Straightforward

If you were operating under the impression that French wasn’t necessary for your SDS or labels, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.

We can create fully compliant English/French SDSs for the Canadian market.
Already have a compliant English version but no ability to produce the French translation? Our professional translators can complete an accurate French SDS for you.

Reach out anytime—we’ll make bilingual compliance simple, accurate, and stress-free. Call ICC today at 888.442.9628 (USA) or 888.977.4834 (Canada) or send us an email.