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Legislation and Guidelines

Health Canada and the Next link will open in a new window Public Health Agency of Canada develop and enforce regulations under Government of Canada legislation. The Departments consult with the Canadian public, industry and other interested parties in the development of laws that protect health and safety. We also prepare guidelines and policies in order to help interpret and clarify legislation.

Next link will open in a new window Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of the Public Health Agency of Canada .

What Is Legislation?

Legislation refers to laws, called Acts, which are enacted by parliament, the legislative arm of government. There is also subordinate legislation where parliament delegates its law-making powers to other bodies (for example, regulations or rules).

What Are Guidelines?

Guidelines are departmental policy and recommended standards or statements that derive from legislation. They do not have the force of law or regulation.

What Information Can You Find Here?

From here, you can view Health Canada’s roles and responsibilities as defined in the Next link will open in a new window Department of Health Act.

Federal Legislation Related to Radiological and Nuclear Emergencies:

International Conventions Regarding Radiological and Nuclear Emergencies:

Last Updated: 2004-10-01 Top