Government of Canada enhances tire safety regulations

OTTAWA, Nov. 20, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, today announced important regulations that will enhance the safety of tires manufactured for the Canadian market. These regulations will replace the current Motor Vehicle Tire Safety Regulations, 1995 (MVTSR, 1995).

"Safety is paramount when out on the road," said Minister Raitt. "The safety of Canadian road users will be improved as all tires sold in Canada must meet the new testing requirements, in addition to proposed standards for appropriately marked winter tires."

The regulations also introduce aligned requirements for winter tires, which allow the enforcement of winter tire standards if manufacturers choose to use the peaked mountain with a snowflake symbol. When Canadian-market manufacturers choose to apply this symbol, it indicates to consumers that the tire meets Canadian winter tire regulatory standards.

"These changes will give consumers easier and better access to crucial information about their tires," said Jeff Walker, vice president of public affairs for the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). "CAA supports regulatory measures that enhance consumer knowledge and choice."

By implementing these regulations, the Government of Canada is responding to tire and vehicle manufacturers who have encouraged the government to align Canadian tire safety regulations with those of the United States. Alignment also supports the principles of the Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council announced by Prime Minister Harper and President Obama in February 2011.

Manufacturers will have until September 1, 2014 to conform to these new regulations.

SOURCE: Transport Canada