Campaign to Don the Capes
In Canada
Health Canada Consumer Products Safety Line across Canada Phone - 1 866 225 0709
Report Adverse Reactions to Canada Health
Health Canada Consumer Products Safety states that unless people call, nothing happens. They track the calls and are required to do some form of follow up. The gov’t needs more ammunition to do something about the chemical industry.
They also advised we call our members of parliament (the federal MPs) with our concerns. If they don’t know, they won’t act, and when we call, we are supporting or demanding their efforts to create the political will for change.
So, If we call the companies, Health Canada, and our MP every time we encounter a product that has an adverse effect on our health, we could live to see some changes !!!
Unless we call the companies, they are not (specifically) aware of potential problems. It can be a pain in the ... but since we are the ones being affected, no-one else will see the need.
You need the barcode, and lot # if applicable - check the bottom or wherever they may have printed something extra on the package. There is usually a 1-800 # on the package. Once a company receives a number of calls regarding a product, they take notice. Until that happens, it is business as usual.
If you encounter a friend or family member wearing something you react to, ask them to provide you with the information on the package, or they can call if they are upset enough - “my friend just said your product is making her sick - how can you be selling me something that could make anyone sick???” use your own examples
3 Calls per Product
1. Manufacturer
2. Health Canada (or equivalent US agency)
3. Member of Parliament (MP) (or State/Federal rep.)
If you are really into it, call your provincial and municipal representatives – look in your local phone books or online to find interesting departments that could become involved. Public Health, Disability, Building inspectors re dryer vent issues, Retail establishments, etc.
Adverse Reaction Reporting
You may need to provide the following information:
- Your name, address and telephone number in case additional information is required.
- The product brand name and product type, and any descriptive information such as cream, spray cologne, etc.
- The name and address of the manufacturer as it appears on the label and any lot or code number
- How long and often you used the product
- A description of the adverse effect you experienced, including whether the reaction occurred while you were applying the product or whether it developed some time after the application
- Whether you have consulted a physician about the problem
- Treatment and outcome of the reaction
By reporting adverse reactions to cosmetics, consumers will be helping the Cosmetics Program identify worrisome products and indicate where corrective action may be required.
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/person/cosmet/reactions_e.html
Link for information in the United States: http://www.cpsc.gov/talk.html