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Guide to Submitting Applications for Registration
Under the Fertilizers Act

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Fertilizer Safety Section
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
October 2015

Contents

Abbreviations

ATCC

American Type Culture Collection

CFIA

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

CAS #

Chemical Abstracts Service number

CFU

Colony Forming Unit

CBI

Confidential Business Information

PCDD/Fs

Dioxins and Furans

EPA

Environmental Protection Agency

FSS

Fertilizer Safety Section

FzA

Fertilizers Act

FzR

Fertilizers Regulations

GLP

Good Laboratory Practice

IQ

Inquiry

ISO

International Organization for Standardization

LOD

Limit of Detection

LOQ

Limit of Quantification

MSDS / SDS

Material Safety Data Sheet / Safety Data Sheet

ED50 / EC50

Median Effective Dose / Median Effective Concentration

ID50 / IC50

Median Infective Dose / Median Inhibition Concentration

LD50 / LC50

Median Lethal Dose / Median Lethal Concentration

LO(A)EL

Lowest Observed (Adverse) Effect Level

MPN

Most Probable Number

NO(A)EL

No Observed (Adverse) Effect Level

OECD

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

PMRA

Pesticide Regulatory Management Agency

PASO

Premarket Application Submissions Office

QA

Quality Assurance

QC

Quality Control

RoA

Results of Analysis

SDS

Service Delivery Standards

SGN

Size Guide Number

TEQ

Toxic Equivalent

WHMIS

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System

Glossary

Fertilizer:

any substance or mixture of substances, containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or other plant food, manufactured, sold or represented for use as a plant nutrient.

Infectivity:

the ability of a microorganism to cross or evade natural host barriers to infection (to invade and persist in a viable state or multiply within or on an organism, with or without disease manifestation).

Material Safety Data Sheet / Safety Data Sheet (MSDS / SDS):

a comprehensive technical bulletin detailing physicochemical, compositional, first aid, human health and environmental hazard, toxicological, ecological, precautionary, personal protection/exposure control, handling, storage, disposal, firefighting, accidental release, stability and reactivity, transport and regulatory information on a substance or product.

Microbial Toxin:

a substance produced by a microorganism that might have a harmful effect on a host organism, irrespective of the presence of the living microorganism.

Microorganism:

a microscopic living organism that is classified in the Bacteria, Archea, Protista (protozoa and algae), Fungi (including yeasts) and Virus (including virus-like particle or sub-viral particle) taxonomic groups.

Pathogen:

any disease-producing microorganism.

Pathogenicity:

the ability of a microorganism to infect a host, establish itself and multiply there, and subsequently inflict injury or damage that might or might not lead to death.

Quality Assurance (QA):

maintenance of a desired level of quality in a product by means of attention to every stage in the production process to ensure product deficiencies do not arise when the product is being developed.

Quality Control (QC):

maintenance of standards in manufactured products by testing output samples against the specification to ensure the quality of the final product and to identify deficiencies after a product is developed and before it is released.

Substance:

any distinguishable kind of organic or inorganic matter, whether animate or inanimate. This definition includes a pure culture of a microorganism. A blend of microorganisms or a microbial product is a mixture of substances rather than an individual substance.

Supplement:

any substance or mixture of substances, other than a fertilizer, that is manufactured, sold or represented for use in the improvement of the physical condition of soils or to aid plant growth or crop yields.

Toxicity:

the ability of a substance to cause adverse effects on living plants or animals due to its poisonous (toxic) nature.

Toxigenicity:

the ability of a microorganism to produce a toxin.

Introduction

1.1 Registrations under the Fertilizers Act

Fertilizers (essential plant nutrients) and supplements (products other than fertilizers that improve the physical condition of the soil or aid plant growth or crop yield) when imported into or sold in Canada are regulated under the authority of the federal Fertilizers Act and Regulations (FzA and FzR) administered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Pursuant to the FzA and FzR, all products must be safe with respect to human, animal and plant health and the environment and properly labelled to avoid misrepresentation in the marketplace. Some fertilizers and most supplements require mandatory pre-market assessment and registration prior to importation and sale in Canada. All registrations are valid for 36 months from the date of their issuance. Product proponents wishing to sell or import a registrable product after that date must apply to the CFIA to renew their registration. Furthermore, no changes to the label, chemical composition or ingredients in the product can be made unless the registration is amended accordingly (major or minor amendment). Alternatively, these changes can be made at the time of re-registration. All products regulated under the FzA and FzR may be subject to marketplace monitoring which includes product inspections, sampling and testing as well as label verification. Non-compliant products may be subject to regulatory action including product detention (stop sale) and in cases of serious or repeated non-compliance, prosecution.

1.2 Service Delivery Standards for Registration Related Submissions

To obtain registration, product proponents must submit an application to the CFIA - all applications must be directed to the Premarket Application Submissions Office (PASO). The file review procedures and associated timeframes (Service Delivery Standards, SDS) for all registration related applications (new registrations, re-registrations, major and minor amendments) are described in Trade Memorandum T-4-122: Service Delivery Standards for Fertilizer and Supplement Registration. The service delivery standards include the actual CFIA review time, the applicant's response time and the queue time since all files are processed in the order they are received. The SDS vary by submission type due to the nature and complexity of the assessment required and allow for up to three review cycles. Please note, that unless there are deficiencies identified in the submission, the file may not require all three reviews and the registration (for example new registration with data) may be issued within 245 days as opposed to 530 days if all three reviews are needed. Therefore, it is critically important that applicants invest the time and effort to familiarize themselves with the registration requirements BEFORE they submit an application to the CFIA.

When deficiencies in the submission are identified at the first review stage the applicants are required to respond to each question posed by the Fertilizer Safety Section (FSS) completely and with sufficient detail to address the deficiency. Partial responses and responses received past the specified timeframe are considered incomplete and the file will be closed. A closed file does not advance to the next review stage and will be returned to the applicant or destroyed. The applicant would then have to re-submit a new package for FSS's consideration and review. In addition, a file is closed if an applicant discloses substantively new information during the file review process about the product, its composition or manufacturing method, that warrant an additional review or assessment.

1.3 Purpose of the Guide

There are a number of documents available on the CFIA website that are intended to increase awareness and understanding of the regulatory requirements for fertilizer and supplements imported into and sold in Canada. The information requirements detailed in this document are specifically designed to assist prospective registrants in preparing complete and well organized submissions to facilitate the file review process and ultimately expedite time to market. This document is accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation that "walks" applicants through the file review process, to offer further guidance to prospective registrants.

1.4 Submission Format

The information included in the registration package must be organized in form of sections (tabs) for ease of access and review by multiple FSS evaluators (toxicologists, microbiologists, agronomists, etc.). All tabs required by product type and/or ingredient must be populated in their entirety. These include: 1) Administrative Forms and Fees; 2) Marketplace Label; 3) Product Specification; 4) Results of Analysis; 5) Safety Rationale and Supplemental Data (as identified in Appendix 1). If the requisite information has already been submitted to the FSS, the applicants must include a statement to that effect under the appropriate tab and, if applicable, reference all relevant submission control numbers (e.g. 12345IQ) or registration numbers (e.g. 1901001A) previously issued by the CFIA. In addition, bridging rationale substantiating why this information is pertinent to the current submission must also be provided.

While it is permissible for applicants to reference previously submitted information, single complete packages are preferred as they facilitate and expedite file review. It is not acceptable to omit a tab. If a tab or sub-tab is not relevant to the submission, a brief written statement is required (i.e. "This product requires only core product information. As such, all required information has been submitted under Tabs 1, 2 and 3."). Submissions without information or a brief statement under each tab are deemed incomplete and will be closed and returned to the applicant.

1.5 Safety Data Requirements

To reduce burden on stakeholders and streamline the information required to support registration under the FzA and FzR, the FSS has implemented a graduated approach whereby the extent of the safety data requirements varies depending on the submission type, nature of the product and its risk profile. All applications for registration require the submission of core product information (Safety assessment Level I), some also require results of analysis (Safety assessment Level II) to allow for verification of consistency in production or effectiveness of treatment as well as purity of the final product with respect to contamination levels. Products with a higher or unknown risk profile necessitate a full safety assessment (Safety Assessment Level III), for which scientific rationales, supplemental safety data and/or additional results of analysis are required. The requisite assessment level (I, II or III) is determined based on the product ingredients (both active and inert) and their sources, potential residues, contaminants, and degradation by-products as well as the manufacturing process, use pattern and application rate and frequency. Table 1 shows the three Safety assessment levels and required information by Tab.

Table 1: Safety Assessment Levels and Information Requirements by Tab
Assessment Level Tab1
(Administrative Requirements)
Tab 2
(Labelling Requirements)
Tab 3
(Product Specification)
Tab 4
(Results of Analysis )
Tab 5
(Safety Rationale and Supplemental Data)
I Check Check Check
II Check Check Check Check
III Check Check Check Check Table Note 1 Check

Table Notes

Table Note 1

Level III submissions may require some or all of the results of analysis

Return to table note 1  referrer

A summary of information requirements for a variety of product ingredients can be found in Appendix 2.

Note: The FSS reserves the right to require additional safety information, data, rationales or results of analysis to support the registration of any product regulated under the FzA and FzR if and when additional safety concerns or questions have been identified during the review of the submission.

In addition to familiarizing themselves with this guide, prospective registrants are encouraged to make use of the Inquiry (IQ) process to seek clarification and obtain guidance on the information requirements specific to their product, prior to submitting an application for registration. Additionally, product proponents may wish to request a Pre-Submission Consultation meeting with the FSS, particularly in the early stages of product development, to obtain guidance, advice, and clarification on the regulatory requirements. The IQ and Pre-Submission Consultation processes can assist product proponents in generating appropriate data and information in support of product registration. Refer to Guidelines for Pre-submission Consultations for Fertilizer and Supplement Products Regulated Under the Fertilizers Act and Regulations for more details.

2. Submission structure and layout

Tab 1: Administrative Forms and Fees

This section outlines the core administrative requirements for an application for registration.

1.1 - Cover Letter

The applicant is required to state the intent of the submission, thereby ensuring proper submission classification. The following must be indicated in the cover letter:

1.2 - Completed Fertilizer and Supplement Registration Application Form

All sections of the Fertilizer or Supplement Registration Application (CFIA/ACIA 3778) form must be completely and accurately filled out. As a legal document, the form is required to be completed in its entirety and must exactly match the information stated on the accompanying label. The FS reserves the right to return a Fertilizer or Supplement Registration Application to the applicant if the form is deemed incomplete. For more information on how to thoroughly complete the application form, please refer to the Guidelines to Completing the Fertilizer or Supplement Registration Application Form.

1.3 - Designation of Signing Authority (T-4-95) and Declaration of Canadian Agent Form

Before proceeding with the registration of a product, it is necessary to provide the FSS with signing authority as outlined in: T-4-95 - Signing Authority, Delegated Representatives and Canadian Agents. Signing authority is the means of explicitly informing the FSS who is authorized to sign a Fertilizer or Supplement Registration Application Form on behalf of the prospective registrant. Signing authority is also used to inform the FSS who they can correspond with regarding the submission. The FSS will not divulge any information regarding the submission or discuss its status with any person(s) who does not have a valid signing authority. A corporation may also appoint a person to be a delegated representative. A delegated representative may correspond with the FSS on matters relating to product registration, re-registration or approval, but may not sign application forms on behalf of the corporation.

It is not mandatory that a registrant/applicant resides in Canada. However, for applicants residing outside of Canada, a Resident Canadian Agent must be designated (by filling out the form in Declaration of Resident Canadian Agent (Form II) (CFIA/ACIA 1194)). The Canadian Agent must co-sign all registration applications (including any re-registrations, amendments, etc.) and may be sent any related notice or correspondence as appropriate. A Canadian Agent must be a person, not a company, and this person must be a permanent resident of Canada. An applicant may have more than one Canadian Agent on file.

1.4 - Registration Fee

In order for the FSS to process a file, a registration fee must accompany the submission as per the T-4-117 - Fees for Consideration of an Application Made Under the Fertilizer Act. The cost of registration of a product under the Fertilizer Act and Regulations can be found on the application form.

Tab 2: Proposed Marketplace Label

According to the FzA and FzR every package containing a fertilizer or supplement must have a label, a copy of which must be submitted with the application for registration. The FSS will accept text versions of the label during the initial review stages, but will not register the product without reviewing the final marketplace label. The FSS requires that any hazard or precautionary statements and personal protective equipment requirements that appear on the (M)SDS or their equivalents be incorporated into the product labels. If these are contained within the WHIMS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) box/portion of the label, they need not be duplicated. Additional precautionary statements and/or protective equipment requirements may be requested by the FSS even if they do not appear on the (M)SDS. All text appearing on a label must be legible in English or French or in both English and French.

The label shall not contain:

  1. any incorrect or misleading information or mark; or
  2. a brand or name that would tend to deceive or mislead a purchaser with respect to the identity of the product as a fertilizer or supplement or its safe use.

The following is required on product labels:

2.1 - Fertilizer

  1. the name and address of the manufacturer of the fertilizer or of the registrant or, in the case of a fertilizer that is not registered, the name and address of the person who caused the fertilizer to be packaged;
  2. the brand of the fertilizer, if any;
  3. the name of the fertilizer;
  4. the registration number of the fertilizer, where applicable;
  5. the guaranteed analysis (expressed in percent);
  6. the directions for use;
  7. the weight of the fertilizer;
  8. where the fertilizers with the exception of specialty fertilizers that guarantee boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum or zinc, the following cautionary statement:
    "Caution: This fertilizer contains (specify name of lesser plant nutrient) and should be used only as recommended. It may prove harmful when misused.";
  9. where a fertilizer contains corn gluten meal or iron sulphate represented for use on lawns (home and garden) and has been approved for use with a fertilizer by the PMRA, appropriate precautionary statements (refer to Appendix 9);
  10. in the case of a fertilizer that is or contains any prohibited material, as defined in subsection 162(1) of the Health of Animals Regulations, other than a rendered fat, conspicuous statements written legibly and indelibly in both official languages that indicate that:
    1. feeding the product to cattle, sheep, deer or other ruminants is illegal and subject to fines or other punishment under the Health of Animals Act,
    2. the product is not to be used on pasture land or other grazing areas for ruminants,
    3. the product is not to be ingested, and
    4. a person should wash his or her hands after the person uses the product;
  11. the lot number of the fertilizer, unless the fertilizer is a customer-formula fertilizer; and
  12. if sold in bulk, all labelling information is required on the shipping bill or on a statement accompanying the shipment.

2.2 - Supplement

  1. the name and address of the manufacturer of the supplement or the name and address of the registrant or, in the case of a supplement that is not registered, the name and address of the person who caused the supplement to be packaged;
  2. the name of the supplement;
  3. the weight of the supplement;
  4. the directions for use of the supplement;
  5. the lot number of the supplement;
  6. the guaranteed analysis (as applicable):
    • the minimum amount of the active ingredient in the supplement, expressed in per cent;
    • the genus and species of viable microorganisms; and
    • the minimum number of viable cells of each microorganism per gram of product, expressed, for example, in CFU or spores per gram;
  7. in the case of a supplement in which the active ingredient may deteriorate, the date beyond which the supplement is not intended for use;
  8. where the supplement contains viable microorganisms, the label may require cautionary statements and/or recommend personal protective equipment, in order to minimize dermal/respiratory sensitization/irritation potential.
  9. in the case of packages of pre-inoculated or coated pre-inoculated seed, the minimum guarantee of the inoculant or the following statement "The product is treated with (species name or genus of the active microorganism(s)) inoculum.";
  10. where the supplement is represented to contain supplemental metal, such as cobalt, the following cautionary statement:
    "Caution: This fertilizer contains (specify name of the supplemental metal) and should be used only as recommended. It may prove harmful when misused.";
  11. in the case of a supplement that is or contains prohibited material, as defined in subsection 162(1) of the Health of Animals Regulations, conspicuous statements written legibly and indelibly in both official languages that indicate that:
    1. feeding the product to cattle, sheep, deer or other ruminants is illegal and subject to fines or other punishment under the Health of Animals Act,
    2. the product is not to be used on pasture land or other grazing areas for ruminants,
    3. the product is not to be ingested, and
    4. a person should wash his or her hands after the person uses the product;
  12. the registration number of the supplement if the supplement is required to be registered; and
  13. if sold in bulk, all labelling information is required on the shipping bill or on a statement accompanying the shipment.

Tab 3: Product Specification

All ingredients in the product and their sources must be identified and listed under this tab. In addition, a detailed description of the manufacturing process preferably in the form of a flow chart is required together with all relevant quality control/assurance procedures used to ensure consistency in production and purity of the final product. This information is the minimum necessary for FSS to conduct a preliminary assessment of the product and determine if additional information is required. It is intended for FSS evaluators only and it is considered and treated as Confidential Business Information (CBI). CBI shall not be divulged or released without explicit authorization (in writing) of the registrant. If the registrant has or anticipates any difficulties in obtaining this information (due to its proprietary nature) it may be submitted by the distributor or manufacturer directly to the CFIA.

3.1 - List of Ingredients

3.1.1 - Input materials

For all materials used in the production of a registrable fertilizer or supplement, except microbial inocula described in section (3.1.2), the following information is required:

  1. Name of the material;
  2. Chemical Abstracts Service number (CAS #, if available);
  3. Manufacturer;
  4. Country of origin;
  5. Source: e.g. manufactured (e.g. dyes, chelators), harvested (e.g. seaweed, straw, yucca), mined (e.g. ores), by-product (e.g. baghouse/electrostatic dust, klinker, slag, electrolysis, ash), recycled organics* (e.g. source separated organics, compost, biosolids, pulp and paper), synthesized (describe the chemical reaction and any residuals and reaction by-products);
  6. Manufacturing/purification processes of the ingredient, if applicable;
  7. Concentration of the material in the final product;
  8. Purpose of the material; and
  9. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) which serve as basis for preliminary safety evaluation, identifying points (such as possible contaminants) which may need to be examined in greater detail. An (M)SDS should also provide a detailed explanation of precautions and protective measures. The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) provides criteria for developing an (M)SDS.

* Recycled organics are required to indicate their inputs or feedstocks

Multiple sources of an ingredient may be identified at the time of product registration and used interchangeably during the manufacture of the product. Note: any new changes to the ingredients, their sources or their supplier(s) after registration require a major amendment.

3.1.2 - Microbial Inocula

For products that contain naturally occurring viable microorganism(s) the following information is required:

  1. Purpose of the microbial strain in the supplement;
  2. Taxonomic identification of the microorganism to the genus and species level; subspecies, and strain information may also be required depending on the nature of the microorganism),
  3. Analytical results (including criteria and raw data) substantiating the taxonomic ID and classification;
  4. Relationship to known pathogens (e.g. phylogenetic trees);
  5. Origin of the microorganism (when, where and from which material it was isolated) if it is an environmental isolate; or the strain bank accession numbers if the strain has been deposited in a recognized culture collection, e.g., American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) or other.

Strong and defensible taxonomic identification, preferably to the strain level, is important for the hazard characterization of the microorganism. The choice of methods for microbial identification is at the discretion of the applicant. However, the FSS recommends that applicants adopt an integrated polyphasic approach that includes phenotypic analysis (e.g. analysis of morphological traits or biochemical characteristics) along with molecular tools (e.g. DNA, RNA or protein based methods), to accurately identify the microorganism. The strengths and weaknesses of the various identification methods should be taken into consideration, such that the methods chosen complement each other to result in a conclusive and definitive identification of the microorganism, and allow for clear differentiation of the organism from any closely related pathogenic and/or toxigenic species and strains. Please consult Identification and taxonomic classification of microorganism(s) represented for use as supplements under the Fertilizers Act for further detail.

Additionally for microorganisms modified by molecular biological techniques the following information is required:

  1. Flow diagram representing the genetic modification process including:
    1. the map of the construct inserted in the host,
    2. location (chromosomal or plasmid),
    3. copy number,
    4. cloning vector(s) used,
    5. promoter sequences,
    6. selectable marker genes including any antibiotic resistance genes.
  2. Detailed description of the gene product(s), their properties and functions;
  3. Description of the metabolic pathways altered by the insertion;
  4. Unintended effects on gene expression (down-regulation or up-regulation of other genes);
  5. Stability of the inserted genetic material;
  6. Horizontal gene transfer potential: capacity to transfer the genetic material between the organism and non-target species, the mechanisms of possible transfer (transformation, transduction or conjugation) and the elements involved (plasmids, bacteriophages, integrative conjugative elements, transposons, insertion sequences, integrons, gene cassettes and genomic islands);
  7. Procedures and tests to detect and quantify the modified microorganisms.

Substantiation of the purity of the inoculum is also required and includes:

  1. A description of the quality control parameters used to monitor, identity and purify the microorganism from the seed stock (primary inoculum), and the company name and address that keep the seed stock;
  2. The manufacturing process and quality control parameters used to monitor the identity and purity of the final inoculum (used as an ingredient in the final product, generally mixed with inert ingredients); and
  3. (M)SDS of the inoculum, if available.

3.1.3 - Composition of the Final Product

  1. The identity and relative proportions as weight/weight percentages (totalling 100%) must be provided for all ingredients present in the final product including all active and inert ingredients, contaminants, residuals, reaction by-products and degradation products;
    The input materials may be the same as the final product constituents providing there are no chemical reaction(s) or metabolic by-products generated during the manufacture/storage of the final product prior to sale and no growth of new microorganism(s) is taking place.
  2. (M)SDS, if available.

3.2 - Method of Manufacture

A description of the manufacturing process of the final product accompanied by a flowchart used as an overview of the process to determine if there is any potential for secondary reactions, formation of by-products and/or microbial contamination. This description must specify each production step, including point of feedstock incorporation and its proportion by weight and associated conditions, such as temperature, pressure, time, and processing equipment.

3.3 - Quality Assurance and Quality Control Procedures

In order to substantiate consistency in production and safety of the final product, proponents are required to provide the following details relating to Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) procedures used during manufacture process:

  1. Substantiation of the conformance of raw materials to specifications and standards (with analysis or accreditation when applicable);
  2. Indication of material(s) being tested (e.g. raw, intermediary or final product);
  3. Specification of analyses and sensitivity of test methods (limits of detection and/or limits of quantification);
  4. Identification of "pass" criteria;
  5. Testing frequency (e.g. per batch or unit time) and point of sampling during production;
  6. Monitoring of manufacturing conditions (e.g. time, pressure, moisture content); and
  7. Fate of noncompliant batches/lots (e.g. reprocessing, disposal).

3.4 - Physical Characteristics of the Final Product

For example: granular, liquid, pH, colour, odor, size guide number (SGN).

Tab 4: Results of Analysis

The results of analysis required in support of a registration vary depending on product type and the source of ingredients. Examples of ingredient-specific results of analysis that are required to be included in a submission are provided in Appendix 2. The safety standards and limits for trace metals, dioxins and furans and indicator organisms (Salmonella and Fecal Coliform) used by the FSS to assess product safety and efficiency of treatment or processing are outlined in Appendix 3.

Product samples must be taken at intervals enabling assessment of the consistency in production (e.g. at regular time intervals, upon receipt of raw materials, per lot/batch, etc.). Applicants are required to indicate the number of batches produced annually and the manufacturing date of each batch that was analyzed. All results of analyses submitted to the FSS must be printed on laboratory letterhead, bear the signature of the analyst, indicate sample preparation method(s) and the test method(s) used together with limits of Quantitation (LOQ) and/or limits of detection (LOD). The methods used must be validated to ensure adequate sensitivity and reproducibility of results. For additional information refer to the Guidance Document Good Laboratory Practices Protocol for Fertilizer and Supplements Registrations.

4.1 - Metals

To demonstrate compliance with the trace metals standards, proponents must provide results of analyses for the following 11 metals: Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Molybdenum (Mo), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), Selenium (Se), and Zinc (Zn) (see Table 3, Appendix 3). The number of metal analyses that are required to demonstrate compliance, at the time of new registration or re-registration, corresponds to the total number of batches/lots of product manufactured within a three (3) year interval preceding the submission of an application for a new or re-registration (refer to Table 2 below).

Table 2: CFIA Fertilizer Sampling Requirements for Metals Analyses
# of Batches/Lots produced within the 3 years preceding the submission # of Sample analyses required
1 1
2 to 4 2
5 to 9 3
10 to 16 4
17 to 25 5
26+ Schedule to be provided by stakeholder and approved by the CFIA To be determined

4.2 - Dioxins and Furans

To demonstrate compliance with the CFIA Fertilizer Dioxin and Furan Standards, proponents must provide one (1) set of TEQ dioxins and furans analyses (see Table 4, Appendix 3). Note: Not all level II safety assessments require the submission of dioxin and furan analyses.

4.3 - Indicator Organisms

Salmonella and Faecal coliforms are currently used by the CFIA as indicators of pathogen contamination and effectiveness of the treatment process. To demonstrate compliance with the CFIA requirements, proponents must provide four (4) sets of result of analyses from four different lots/batches of the final product for faecal coliform and Salmonella. Samples must be taken at intervals of at least two weeks for continuous or semi-continuous batches, or at intervals that correspond to the actual batch manufacture (see Table 5, Appendix 3).

Tab 5: Safety Rationale and Supplemental Data

Product safety assessments are conducted using the universal four (4) step risk assessment framework that is also employed by other CFIA programs (e.g. plant, animal, food), sister government departments or Agencies (e.g. Health Canada, Environment Canada, Pesticide Regulatory Management Agency (PMRA), and international counterparts (e.g. US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)). The four steps of the framework consist of: hazard identification, dose-response assessment (hazard characterization), exposure assessment and risk characterization.

The information detailed in this section is required to substantiate the safety of a product with respect to human, plant, and animal health and the environment when the product is used as directed. Based on the assessment, additional information may be requested by the FSS. The safety rationales and supplemental data are only required for level III full safety assessments and are determined based on the risk profile of the product. This Tab has been broken down into three (3) sections: Toxicological Risk Profile; Microbial Risk Profile; and References and Supplemental Documentation. The FSS strongly recommends that applicants seek assistance/advice from scientific professionals with an expertise in human and environmental toxicology and/or microbiology to assist in preparing documentation required under this tab.

Where there are reasonable scientific grounds to believe that an information requirement identified in this tab is neither necessary, nor applicable to the safety assessment of a product/ingredient, a waiver from the information requirement or elements of it may be requested, and must be accompanied by a sound scientific rationale.

5.1 - Toxicological Risk Profile

5.1.1 - Toxicological Hazard Characterization

All fields of the table found in Appendix 4 must be completed for ingredients that warrant a level III safety assessment (i.e. for products or ingredients that do not have a well-established history of safe use in fertilizers and supplements). The alternative to this requirement is to provide a literature-supported scientific rationale explaining why elements of the table are either not applicable or relevant to the ingredient. If other hazard endpoints (e.g. allergenicity), route-specific hazards (e.g. pulmonary carcinogenicity with chronic inhalation exposure) or species-specific hazards (e.g. avian toxicity) are known to the applicant, it is their responsibility to identify them. Additional information may be required by the FSS depending on risks identified.

Toxicological hazard characterization may be based on information found in published peer-reviewed scientific literature, international regulatory databases, in vitro and in vivotoxicity testing/studies and, in the absence of experimental data, modelling. Information pertaining to a similar substance may be submitted (surrogate data). This requires a bridging rationale demonstrating similarity between the substances of interest and its surrogate including all relevant characteristics (physical, chemical, or toxicological).

Where an ingredient has:

it is considered a high hazard ingredient. For high hazard ingredients (i.e. those that meet any of the Hazard Criteria identified in Appendix 4) the Toxicological Exposure and Risk Assessment must be conducted (as detailed in sub-tab 5.1.2 and 5.1.3). Ingredients that do not meet any of the hazard criteria do not require an Exposure Assessment or Risk Assessment and completion of sub-tab 5.1.2 and 5.1.3 is not mandatory. Appendix 10 provides a list of useful information resources to aid in the hazard determination.

5.1.2 - Toxicological Exposure Assessment

Applicants must populate all fields of the table found in Appendix 5 for all constituent materials (active and inert), residuals, contaminants and degradation products for which a high hazard level has been identified, as per the endpoint-specific Hazard Criteria found in Appendix 4. Both direct routes of exposure (occupational mixer, loader, applicator/user) and indirect routes of exposure (by-stander, groundwater, food or feed crop residue, contaminated soil contact and consumption) must be addressed. The choice of appropriate or relevant routes of exposure is based on the intended use pattern of the product (e.g. agricultural field use vs. potting mixes; ornamental plant species vs. food crops), frequency and rates of application as well as the physicochemical properties of the product and its constituents. These are important factors in determining human, animal, non-target plant and environmental exposure scenarios and must be identified in Appendix 5. Applicants must consider worst-case exposure scenarios. Label statements intended to limit exposures such as recommendations for protective equipment to be used, safe handling and disposal procedures, precautionary statements and use pattern restrictions (e.g. do not use on food crops or grazing lands) as well as post-entry intervals (if applicable) should be integrated in the estimates of human and environmental exposure. The FSS considers the custom-applicator scenario as the worst-case frequency of occupational exposure.

5.1.3 - Toxicological Risk Assessment

Applicants must generate estimates of risk (to be populated in Appendix 5) by combining the hazard and exposure assessments for each high hazard ingredient under all relevant exposure scenarios characterized in sub-tab 5.1.2. The FSS will review and validate the risk estimate(s) derived by the applicant. Additional information/test data may be required in order to refine the exposure and hazard assessments and/or require mitigative measures such as protective equipment to be used, safe handling and disposal procedures, precautionary statements, use pattern restrictions (e.g. food vs. non-food crop) and any post-entry intervals, if applicable to facilitate safe use of the product.

5.2 - Microbial Risk Profile

5.2.1 - Microbial Hazard Assessment

A hazard assessment characterizes the microorganism and identifies the potential adverse effects (i.e., pathogenicity/toxicity, sensitization, toxigenicity) on humans, animals and plants, and on the environment. The hazards may be posed by the microorganism itself, its metabolites/toxins or its genetic material.

Source of hazard information include test data, a review of case reports and analytical studies from the scientific literature, and research investigations (completed or ongoing). Hazard information considered in the assessment may be for the specific microorganism being assessed, or a suitable surrogate, if there is insufficient information on the specific microorganism and the choice of surrogate is supported by a sound scientific rationale. Factors affecting the severity (degree) of hazard may be strain specific and therefore the assessment must address the factors known or suspected to be produced by the strain, as well as those known or suspected to be produced by other strains of the species (or genus). The severity of hazard may also be affected by the life stage of the organism. For this reason, all stages of the life cycle of the microorganism and their potential effects must be considered.

Ideally, test/study data are used to evaluate the potential adverse effects of the specific microorganism being assessed. Testing typically starts with a maximum hazard dose (maximum label dose/rate). If adverse effects are reported at this dose, a range of lesser doses may be used to establish a dose-response relationship, and ideally to identify an appropriate statistical endpoint, such as median infective, effective or lethal dose or concentration (ID50/IC50, ED50/EC50, LD50/LC50) (Environment Canada, EPS 1/RM/46, March 2005). Recommended methodology for testing the pathogenicity/toxicity of microorganisms on human, animals and plants are available in the "Guidance document for testing the pathogenicity and toxicity of new microbial substances to aquatic and terrestrial organisms" (Environment Canada, Report EPS 1/RM/44, March 2004). Appendix 11 describes the documents referenced in this section and additional useful information resources. A study report should be prepared for each study. The OECD's Principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) include guidance on reporting study results (OECD; 1998a). The extent of compliance with OECD's Principles of Good Laboratory Practice should be indicated.

Appendix 6 highlights the data required for microbial hazard characterization. Applicants must provide the FSS with information regarding each row of the table, with appropriate reference(s), in a separate document entitled "Technical information - Hazard Characterization". We recommend that the applicant uses Appendix 6 as a checklist to assist in providing all relevant information that is required. The information presented should be referenced, and a copy of each referenced publication/documentation or analytical/study report must be provided in the submission.

5.2.2 - Microbial Exposure Assessment

Information considered in the exposure assessment may be for the specific microorganism being assessed, or a suitable surrogate, if there is insufficient information on the specific microorganism and the choice of surrogate is supported by a sound scientific rationale.

An exposure assessment identifies the mechanisms by which a microorganism is introduced into a receiving environment, considers its environmental expression and fate, and estimates the likelihood, magnitude, frequency, duration, and/or extent of human and environmental exposure. Exposure to the microorganism may be direct (e.g., through contact with product) or indirect. Indirect exposure assessment considers how the microorganism is released into the environment through known, proposed or predicted uses, and the environmental fate of the microorganism, its genetic material, toxins and metabolites.

Appendix 7 highlights the factors that need to be addressed in order to characterize the exposure to the microorganism. Applicants must provide the FSS with information regarding each row of the table, with appropriate reference(s), in a separate document entitled "Technical information - Exposure Characterization". We recommend that the applicant uses Appendix 7 as a checklist to assist in providing all relevant information that is required.

5.2.3 - Microbial Risk Assessment

The risk assessment conclusion is based on the hazard, and on what is known about exposure. Considerations for classification of microbial hazard severity and exposure level are summarized in Appendix 8. Where appropriate, any preventative risk mitigation measures such as protective equipment to be used, safe handling and disposal procedures, precautionary statements and use pattern restrictions (e.g. do not use on food crops or grazing lands) as well as post-entry intervals maybe required to minimize worker and environmental exposures.

5.3 - References and Supplemental Documentation

All published information used to fulfill the requirements under Tab 5 must be cited in-text (author/source, year) and also provided in a list of references under this sub-tab. Each document must be properly referenced (authors, document name, source, date and page numbers).

Also, copies of all published information referenced under Tab 5 and analytical results used or mentioned in Tab 4 and Tab 5 must be provided under this sub-tab. All models or modelling software employed in support of the safety rationale must be cited in-text (model, version) and must also be provided in the list of references under this tab.

Appendices

Appendix 1: Mandatory List of Tabs and Sub-Tabs

Figure 1: Format of the submission

Figure 1: Format of the submission. All Tabs are mandatory and omitting any Tabs will result in the application for registration being rejected / returned to applicant during the first response stage. Please adhere to the headings of each tab as identified in the guide.

Appendix 2: Product Ingredients and Associated Safety Data Requirements

The presence of an active or inert ingredient in the product may trigger additional safety requirements. Bolded materials trigger registration when guaranteed on the product label. All products comprising or containing industrial by-products or recycled organic materials require Tab 4 (Results of Analysis).

Level I
Tabs 1, 2, 3 Tab 4 - Metals Tab 4 - Dioxins Furans Tab 4 - Indicator Organisms Tab 5
Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at a concentration not exceeding 1% of the product excluding products for commercial spray application Check
VAMs (Vesicular Arbuscular Myccorhizae) provided the species is substantially equivalent/representative of VAM group Check
Rhizobia (species of the genera Rhizobium, Bradyrhizobium, Mesorhizobium and Sinorhizobium) provided the species is substantially equivalent/representative of the rhizobia group, and is not genetically modified. Check
Bacillus subtilis provided the strain is representative of the species, is not genetically modified and does not produce any human enterotoxin. Check
Level II
Tabs 1, 2, 3 Tab 4 - Metals Tab 4 - Dioxins Furans Tab 4 - Indicator Organisms Tab 5
Mineral derivednutrients mixed fertilizers, for farm use, meets no other exemptions Check Check Table Note 2
Biochar Check Check Check
Micronutrients Table Note 3 Check Check Table Note 2
Humic and Fulvic Acids Check Check Table Note 2
Seaweed Check Check Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Cement Kiln Dust Check Check Table Note 4 Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Compost Check Check Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Meals Check Check Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Processed sewage including composts thereof Check Check Check Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Pulp and paper sludge Check Check Check Check
Farm Fertilizers containing Wood ash Check Check Check

Table Notes

Table note 2

source dependent.

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Table Note 3

micronutrients only require registration when they are not combined with any other type of nutrient (i.e. nitrogen, phosphorous, or potassium).

Return to table note 3  referrer

Table Note 4

requires Thallium and Vanadium testing in addition to the 11 standard metal analytes.

Return to table note 4  referrer

Level III
Tabs 1, 2, 3 Tab 4 - Metals Tab 4 - Dioxins Furans Tab 4 - Indicator Organisms Tab 5
Polymer coated fertilizers Table Note 5 Check Check
Polymeric soil stabilizers Check Check
Wetting agents and surfactants Check Check
Nano-encapsulated fertilizers and nano-materials Table Note 6 Check Check
Plant growth regulators other than IBA as described above Check Check
Plant signalling compounds (e.g. LCOs, Hesperetin, Naringenin) Check Check
Registrable supplement(s) that would themselves require a full safety data package, blended with fertilizer. Check Table Note 7 Table Note 7 Table Note 7 Check
Inoculant extenders sold with an inoculant Check Check Check
Viable microorganism(s) other than those described in Level I Check Check Check
Metabolites of organism(s) Check Check Check

Table Notes

Table Note 5

polymer coated fertilizers require safety assessment even if exempt from registration.

Return to table note 5  referrer

Table Note 6

all products in part or in whole comprised of nano-materials require full safety assessment.

Return to table note 6  referrer

Table note 7

Basic Results of Analysis required depending on the ingredients.

Return to table note 7  referrer

Note: this does not constitute a comprehensive list of product /ingredient - specific requirements.

Appendix 3: Metals, Dioxins/Furans Standards and Maximum Acceptable Level of Indicator Organisms in Fertilizers and Supplements

Metals Standards

The CFIA metals standards are predicated on the maximum acceptable cumulative metal addition to soils over a 45 year time period (refer to Table 3), as opposed to the metal concentration in the product per se. Hence, the application rate of a product is a crucial element in determining acceptable product metal concentrations. The rationale behind the 45 year cumulative application approach is intended to account for the persistence of metals in the environment which ultimately determines the level of contamination and thus, long term impacts.

The maximum acceptable product metal concentration (in mg metal/kg product) is calculated for each metal using the CFIA standards for maximum acceptable 45-year cumulative metal additions to soil (identified in Table 3) and the product's maximum recommended annual application rate as follows:

equation
Description

The maximum acceptable concentration of a metal of concern in a product is equal to one million times the maximum acceptable cumulative addition of the metal of concern to soil over 45 years divided by the product's annual application rate times 45.

In cases where a fertilizer product does not have an application rate indicated on the label, the 95th percentile of the provincially recommended agronomic application rates for the guaranteed nutrients are used to determine the appropriate application rate. Detailed information on the metals standards (including the relevant calculations) can be found in Trade Memorandum T-4-93 Standards for metals in fertilizers and supplements. Table 3 shows the acceptable metals concentrations for products at different application rates.

Table 3. CFIA Metals Standards and Maximum Acceptable Fertilizer/Supplement Metal Concentrations
Metal Maximum Acceptable Cumulative Metal Additions to Soil over 45 Years
(kg metal/ha)
Maximum Acceptable Product Metal Concentration Based on Annual Application Rates
(mg metal/kg product) 4400 kg/hayr
Maximum Acceptable Product Metal Concentration Based on Annual Application Rates
(mg metal/kg product) 2000 kg/hayr
Maximum Acceptable Product Metal Concentration Based on Annual Application Rates
(mg metal/kg product) 500 kg/hayr
Arsenic (As) 15 75 166 666
Cadmium (Cd) 4 20 44 177
Chromium (Cr) 210 1,060 2,333 9,333
Cobalt (Co) 30 151 333 1,333
Copper (Cu) 150 757 1,666 6,666
Mercury (Hg) 1 5 11 44
Molybdenum (Mo) 4 20 44 177
Nickel (Ni) 36 181 400 1,600
Lead (Pb) 100 505 1,111 4,444
Selenium (Se) 2.8 14 31 124
Zinc (Zn) 370 1,868 4,111 16,444

Dioxins/Furans Standard

The CFIA standard for maximum acceptable cumulative addition to soils of polychlorinated dibenzo-p- dioxins (dioxins; PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (furans; PCDF) is 5.355 mg TEQ/ha over 45 years (where TEQ = Toxic Equivalency Quotient). Like the CFIA metals standards, the application rate of a product is a crucial element in determining acceptable product dioxins/furans concentrations and the 45 year cumulative application approach is employed to account for environmental persistence and long-term impacts.

The maximum acceptable product dioxins/furans concentration (in ng TEQ/kg product) is calculated using the CFIA standard for maximum acceptable 45-year cumulative dioxins/furans addition to soil (5.355mg TEQ/ha) and the product's maximum recommended annual application rate as follows:

equation
Description

The maximum acceptable concentration of dioxins and furans in a product is equal to one million times the maximum acceptable cumulative addition of dioxins and furans to soil over 45 years divided by the product's annual application rate times 45.

In addition, a maximum product concentration of 100 ng TEQ/kg product is being considered to protect workers and bystanders. Table 4 shows the dioxin/furan acceptable concentrations for products at different application rates.

Table 4. Maximum Acceptable PCDD/Fs Concentrations in Fertilizer/Supplement
Maximum Acceptable Cumulative PCDD/F Additions to Soil over 45 Years (mg TEQ/ha) Permissible PCDD/F Concentration Based on Annual Application Rates (ng TEQ/ha) 4400 kg/hayr Permissible PCDD/F Concentration Based on Annual Application Rates (ng TEQ/ha) 2000 kg/hayr
PCDD/F 5.355 27 59.5

Indicator Organisms

Salmonella and Faecal coliforms are currently used as indicators of microbial contamination and effectiveness of treatment process. Table 5 shows the maximum acceptable level of Salmonella and faecal coliforms in fertilizers and supplements.

Table 5. Maximum Acceptable Level of Indicator Organisms in Fertilizers and Supplements
Indicator Organism Level Minimum Detection Limit
Salmonella Not Detectable less than 1 CFU (Colony Forming Unit)/25 grams
Faecal Coliforms 1000 MPN (Most Probable Number)/ gram less than 2 CFU/gram

Appendix 4: Toxicological Hazards Characterization

Ingredient Identification
Ingredient
Chemical Abstract Number (CAS#)
Relative Concentration in final product
Physical Chemical Properties
Exposure Model Inputs Hazard Criteria Value Reference(s)
Organic carbon partitioning coefficient (Koc)
Log Octanol Water partitioning coefficient (Log Kow)
Water Solubility at 25°C
Vapour Pressure
Persistence Air ≥ 2 days
Persistence Water ≥ 6 months
Persistence Soil ≥ 6 months
Persistence Sediment ≥ 1 year
Bioaccumulation, Bioconcentration, Biomagnification Factors >5000
Mammalian Hazard Profile
Endpoint by Exposure Route Hazard Criteria Table Note 8 Test Organism Term Effect Dose Reference(s)
Oral Acute (LD50, NOEL, NOAEL) LD50 £ 500 mg/kg bw
Oral Subchronic LO(A)EL, NO(A)EL LO(A)EL £ 90 mg/kg bw
Oral Subchronic LO(A)EL, NO(A)EL NO(A)EL £ 30 mg/kg bw
Oral Chronic LO(A)EL, NO(A)EL LO(A)EL £ 30 mg/kg bw
Oral Chronic LO(A)EL, NO(A)EL NO(A)EL £ 10 mg/kg bw
Dermal Acute (LD50, NOEL, NOAEL) LD50 £ 500 mg/kg bw
Dermal Irritation/Sensitization
Inhalation Acute (LD50, NOEL, NOAEL) LD50 £ 1500 mg/m3
Ocular Irritation
Carcinogenicity Indication of positive result for these endpoints triggers safety rationale
Clastogenicity and Mutagenicity
Reproductive/Developmental Toxicity, Teratogenicity Table Note 8
Endocrine Disruption

Table Notes

Table note 8

Cancer potency factor (q1*)

Return to table note 8  referrer

Aquatic Hazard Profile
Category Hazard Criteria Table Note 9 Test Organism Term Effect Concn Reference(s)
Vertebrate (e.g. Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Brook trout (Salvelinaus fontinalis), Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), Bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus)) Acute: Lowest EC50 or LC50 <0.1 ppm
Invertebrate (e.g. Daphnia (Daphnia sp., Ceriodaphnia dubia), Zebra fish (Brachydanio rerio), Worm (Lumbriculus variegatus)) Acute: Lowest EC50 or LC50 <0.1 ppm
Benthic (e.g. Amphipod (Hyallela azteca), Midge larvae (Chironomus tentans, Chironomus riparius)) Acute: Lowest EC50 or LC50 <0.1 ppm
Algae (e.g. Pseudokrchneriella subcapitata, Champia parvula) Acute: Lowest EC50 or LC50 <0.1 ppm

Table Notes

Table note 9

For each ingredient where any of the hazard criteria are met, proceed to Appendix 5

Return to table note 9  referrer

Note: A copy of Appendix 4 is available upon request. Please contact the Premarket Application Submissions Office (PASO).

Appendix 5: Toxicological Exposure and Risk Assessment

Only to be populated for high hazard ingredients (i.e. those that meet any of the Hazard Criteria identified in Appendix 4)

Mixer/Applicator

Exposure Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Application methodology/equipment
Application rate
Area of application (ha)
Frequency of application
Expected route(s) of exposure
(e.g. dermal, inhalation) based on application method and product and constituent physico-chemical properties
Mitigative Factors Limiting Exposure
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Dermal Absorption Factor (if applicable) (% of oral dose) (DAF) Provide value and associated reference
Estimate of exposureA (mg/kg bw/d) Show derivation and associated modelling assumptions
Risk Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Critical endpoint and critical (mg/kg bw/d)B and/or
cancer potency factor, q1* (mg/kg bw/d)-1
As identified in Appendix 4
Margin of Safety (B/A) and/or
Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) (q1* x A)

Bystander/Indirect

Exposure Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Method of exposure
(e.g. drift, re-entry, soil contact or consumption, potable water, plant residues)
Application rate
Area of application
Frequency of exposure
Application setting (e.g. agriculture, greenhouse, residential)
Re-entry Interval
Expected route(s) of exposure
(e.g. dermal, inhalation) based on application method and product and constituent physico-chemical properties
Environmental media concentration (ppm) (as required) Exceedance of persistence screening criteria (Appendix 4) must be accounted for in this derivation
Estimate of exposureA (mg/kg bw/d) Show derivation, identify model used and associated modelling assumptions
Risk Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Critical endpoint and critical dose (mg/kg bw/d)B and/or
cancer potency factor, q1* (mg/kg bw/d)-1
As identified in Appendix 4
Margin of Safety (B/A) and/or
Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) (q1* x A)

Environmental

Exposure Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Expected target environmental media
(e.g. soil, air, aquatic, sediment) based on application method and product and constituent physico-chemical properties
Application methodology/equipment
Application rate
Frequency of application
Environmental media concentration estimate C (ppm)
(e.g. impregnated granule, soil, sediment or aquatic concentration)
Show derivation, identify model used and associated modelling assumptions
Exceedance of persistence and/or biomagnification/bioaccumulation/ bioconcentration screening criteria (Appendix 4) must be accounted for in this derivation
Organism(s) of concern exposure estimate(s) D (mg/kg bw/d)
(if applicable, e.g. avian/terrestrial vertebrate toxicity)
Show derivation, identify model used and associated assumptions (e.g. daily soil/granule ingestion rate)
Risk Assessment
Assumption/Derivation/Rationale
Organism(s) of concern and associated critical environmental concentration(s) (ppm) E As identified in Appendix 4
Organism(s) of concern and associated critical dose (mg/kg bw/d) F
(if applicable e.g. avian/terrestrial vertebrate toxicity)
Risk Quotient (E/C)
Margin of Safety (F/D)
(if applicable e.g. avian/terrestrial vertebrate toxicity)

B The critical effect is typically the first adverse effect that occurs with increasing dose; the critical dose is the dose at which this adverse effect is observed. The carcinogenic potency factor (q1*) is a measure of the relative strength of a non-threshold carcinogen.

Note: A copy of Appendix 5 is available upon request. Please contact the Premarket Application Submissions Office (PASO).

Appendix 6: Microbial Hazard Characterization (Checklist)

Organism Hazard Yes/No References
Human Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Human Sensitization/Irritation
Human Dermatophytic potential
Human Toxigenicity Table Note 10
Mammals Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Mammals Sensitization/Irritation
Mammals Dermatophytic potential
Mammals Toxigenicity Table Note 10
Other terrestrial vertebrates (e.g. birds) Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Other terrestrial vertebrates (e.g. birds) Sensitization/Irritation
Other terrestrial vertebrates (e.g. birds) Toxigenicity Table Note 10
Terrestrial plants/crops Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Terrestrial plants/crops Growth inhibition
Terrestrial plants/crops Post-harvest spoilage
Terrestrial invertebrates (e.g. bees, earthworms, springtails) Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Aquatic vertebrates (fishes) Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Aquatic invertebrates (benthic, epibenthic) Pathogenicity/Toxicity
Aquatic plants (algae) Pathogenicity/Toxicity

Table Notes

Table note 10

Hazard to a toxin can be estimated using established chemical models (see Appendix 4)

Return to table note 10  referrer

Note: A copy of Appendix 6 is available upon request. Please contact the Premarket Application Submissions Office (PASO).

Appendix 7: Microbial Exposure Characterization - Factors to Consider

Natural occurrence:
Category References
Geographical distribution
Natural habitats: soils, water, atmosphere, on or inside of living organisms (e.g. endophyte, epiphyte)
Hosts (symbiotic, saprophytic or pathogenic relationships)
Food/feed crops on which the microorganism is found in nature
Residues on food/feed (accumulation of the microorganism or its metabolites in the edible portion of the plant) Table Note 11

Table Notes

Table Note 11

Residue data are used to estimate the dietary exposure of humans and livestock to microbial toxins.

Return to table note 11  referrer

Physiological properties:
Category References
Growth parameters (e.g. temperature, pH, osmotic minima, maxima and optima)
Nutritional dependence, oxygen requirements, energy sources
Susceptibility to antibiotics, metals and environmental factors such as sunlight and desiccation
Favorable conditions for toxin production Table Note 12

Table Notes

Table Note 12

Exposure to a toxin can be estimated using established chemical models (see Appendix 5).

Return to table note 12  referrer

Description of the life cycle:
Category References
Characteristics of the different forms of the microorganism during its life cycle (e.g. motile cells, dormant cysts, spores)
Mechanism for reproduction and dispersal
Mechanism for survival (in adverse conditions)
Potential for dispersal of traits or gene transfer (mandatory for microorganisms modified by molecular biological techniques)
Unusual properties:
Category References
Unusual properties of the notified strain that differ from the classical description of the species (mandatory for microorganisms modified by molecular biological techniques)
Product Use Pattern:
Category References
Crops/plants on which the product is intended to be used Label
Application methodology/equipment Label
Application rate Label
Frequency of application Label
Expected route(s) of exposure (e.g. dermal, inhalation, ingestion)

Note: A copy of Appendix 7 is available upon request. Please contact the Premarket Application Submissions Office (PASO).

Appendix 8: Considerations for classification of Microbial Hazard Severity and Exposure Level

Classification Considerations for classification Hazard Severity Considerations for classification Exposure Level
High
  • Significant uncertainty in the identification, characterization or possible effects.
  • Disease in healthy humans/animals/plants is severe or may be lethal.
  • Disease in susceptible humans/animals/plants may be lethal.
  • Lethal or severe (irreversible) effects in laboratory mammals/plants at maximum hazard dose.
  • Potential for horizontal transmission/community-acquired infection.
  • Irreversible adverse effects (e.g., loss of biodiversity, loss of habitat, serious disease).
  • The release quantity, duration and/or frequency are high.
  • The organism is likely to survive, persist, disperse proliferate and become established in the environment.
  • Dispersal or transport to other environmental compartments is likely.
  • The nature of release makes it likely that susceptible living organisms will be exposed.
  • In relation to exposed organisms, routes of exposure are permissive of toxic or pathogenic effects in susceptible organisms.
  • Presence of residue on food/feed (microorganism or its toxins).
Medium
  • Case reports of human/animal/plant disease in the scientific literature are limited to susceptible populations or are rare, localized and rapidly self-resolving in healthy humans/animals/plants.
  • Effects at maximum hazard dose in laboratory mammals/plants are not lethal, and are rapidly self-resolving.
  • Low potential for horizontal transmission/community-acquired infection.
  • Some adverse but reversible or self-resolving effects.
  • It is released into the environment, but quantity, duration and/or frequency of release is moderate.
  • It may persist in the environment, but in low numbers.
  • The potential for dispersal/transport is limited.
  • The nature of release is such that some susceptible living organisms may be exposed.
  • In relation to exposed organisms, routes of exposure are not expected to favour toxic or pathogenic effects.
Low
  • No case reports of human/animal/plant disease in the scientific literature, or case reports associated with predisposing factors are rare and without potential for secondary transmission and any effects are mostly mild, asymptomatic, or benign.
  • No adverse effects seen at maximum dose in laboratory mammals/plants by any route of exposure.
  • Well characterized and identified with no adverse environmental effects known.
  • May have theoretical negative impacts for a short period but no predicted long term effect for microbial, plant and/or animal populations or ecosystems.
  • Has a history of safe use over several years.
  • It is used in containment (no intentional release).
  • The nature of release and/or the biology of the microorganism are expected to contain the microorganism such that susceptible populations or ecosystems are not exposed.
  • Low quantity, duration and frequency of release of microorganisms that are not expected to survive, persist, disperse or proliferate in the environment where released.

Source: Adapted from Environment Canada and Health Canada (2011): Framework for Science-Based Risk Assessment of Micro-Organisms Regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999

Note: Combinations of the factors within each generalized hazard severity or exposure level above are possible and would affect the overall hazard or exposure assessment.

Appendix 9: Labelling Requirements for Fertilizer-Pesticides Permitted for Home and Garden Uses

Corn Gluten Meal
Common Name: Corn gluten meal
Guaranteed Analysis: Corn gluten meal (actual)
Approved For Use: In specialty lawn/turf fertilizers containing compatible fertilizer constituent materials.
Approved Claims: Pre-emergence inhibition of large and smooth crabgrass, white clover and dandelion seed germination in residential lawns where established perennial ryegrass or established Kentucky bluegrass are the predominant grass species.
Approved Claims: Pre-emergence inhibition of large crabgrass, white clover and dandelion seed germination in public areas such as sports fields, parks, golf areas, and sod farms, where established perennial ryegrass or established Kentucky bluegrass are the predominant grass species.
Application Rates: 9500 - 9800 g of corn gluten meal / 100m2
Directions For Use: May inhibit weed seed germination when used in conjunction with a sound lawn (or turf) maintenance program.
Directions For Use: Established weeds at time of application will not be inhibited.
Directions For Use: Do not apply the product on newly seeded grass as it may inhibit seeds from germinating, wait until after first mowing when root systems are established.
Directions For Use: If over-seeding or re-sodding in the spring, do not apply the product in the spring. If over-seeding or re-sodding in the fall, do not apply the product in the fall.
Directions For Use: For best results: Apply to established turf twice a year; once in the early spring 2 weeks before weed seed germination, and once in the late summer or early fall after heat stress has passed.
Directions For Use: Apply when soil is moist and when rain is forecasted within 2 days of treatment. If rainfall does not occur within 2 days of treatment, irrigation is required. Excessive moisture at time of treatment may reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Directions For Use: Do not apply under windy conditions.
Directions For Use: Product application dates may vary for both the spring and late summer/early fall application from year to year according to weather conditions.
Directions For Use: The inhibitory effect of the product to weed seeds generally dissipates in five weeks following application.
Directions For Use: Apply to a mature lawn having a well-developed root mass.
Directions For Use: Large crabgrass seeds germinate when soil temperature reaches 12.8°C.
Precautions: Keep Out Of Reach Of Children [On Main And Secondary Panels].
Precautions: Read The Label Before Using [On Main Panel].
Precautions: Caution Eye Irritant [On Main Panel].
Precautions: Potential Sensitizer [On Main Panel].
Precautions: May cause sensitization.
Precautions: Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing.
Precautions: Avoid inhaling dusts.
Precautions: For good hygiene practice, wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, closed footwear and gloves when handling the product.
Precautions: It is recommended that a dust mask be worn when transferring the product to the spreader.
Precautions: Should not be applied if the applicator or a member of the household has a sensitivity or allergy to corn.
First Aid: If Swallowed: Rinse mouth and throat with copious amounts of water. Do not induce vomiting.
First Aid: If On Skin/Clothing: Take off contaminated clothing. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water.
First Aid: If Inhaled: Move to fresh air.
First Aid: If In Eyes: Hold eye open and rinse slowly and gently with water. Remove contact lenses if present, then continue rinsing eye.
First Aid: General: Seek medical attention immediately if irritation or signs of toxicity occur and persist or is severe. Take container, label or product name and registration number with you when seeking medical attention.
Toxicological: Treat symptomatically.
Storage: Keep in cool, dry conditions, away from seed, fertilizer and other pesticides. Keep away from fire, open flame, or other sources of heat.
Disposal: Do not re-use empty container. Dispose in accordance with municipal or provincial regulations if applicable. If no such regulations apply, wrap and dispose of empty container with household garbage.
Notice To User: This product is to be used in accordance with the directions on this label. It is an offence under the Pest Control Products Act to use this product under unsafe conditions.
Accepted Compatible Pesticide Active Ingredients: None
Approved Brands Of Pesticide Products: Refer to the corn gluten meal section PMRA's approved brands of pesticide products
Ferrous Sulphate
Common Name: Ferrous Sulphate
Guaranteed Analysis: Ferrous Sulphate (actual)
Approved For Use: In specialty lawn/turf fertilizers containing compatible fertilizer constituent materials.
Approved Claims: Controls moss in lawns.
Application Rates: 250 - 980 g of Ferrous sulphate / 100m2
Directions For Use: In lawns: Moss will take over under conditions of poor light, poor drainage and inadequate plant food. Prune trees to open up and reduce shade. Improve drainage with tiling, slit trenching or contouring.
Directions For Use: Fertilize on a regular basis.
Directions For Use: For immediate control of moss water lawn thoroughly. Spray on recommended rate. Water in to wash off grass blades; then with-hold water for several days. May also be applied at dry rate, but water in thoroughly immediately after application.
Precautions: Keep Out Of Reach Of Children.
Precautions: Read Label Before Using [On Main Panel].
Precautions: Harmful If Swallowed.
Precautions: Avoid Contact With Eyes, Skin And Clothing.
Precautions: Avoid Breathing Dust Or Spray Mist.
Precautions: Store In Its Original Container Tightly Closed And Away From Children And Pets.
Precautions: Wash hands after use.
Precautions: May stain stone, brick masonry or light coloured sidings.
Precautions: May corrode bare metal.
Precautions: Flush off spills with clear water.
Precautions: Do not use on cement products such as sidewalks, patios, blocks, stucco, etc.
First Aid: If Swallowed: Get medical attention or contact poison control centre.
First Aid: If In Eyes: Flush with plenty of water and get medical attention or contact poison control centre.
First Aid: If On Skin: Wash with soap and water.
Disposal: Discard empty container in household garbage.
Accepted Compatible Pesticide Active Ingredients: None
Approved Brands Of Pesticide Products: Refer to the ferrous sulphate section PMRA's approved brands of pesticide products

Appendix 10: Information Resources - Toxicology

Site Name ChemIDplus
Link http://chem.sis.nlm.nih.gov/chemidplus/
Description Of Site "ChemIDplus is a free, web-based search system that provides access to structure and nomenclature authority files used for the identification of chemical substances cited in National Library of Medicine (NLM) databases, including the TOXNET® system. ChemIDplus also provides structure searching and direct links to many biomedical resources at NLM and on the Internet for chemicals of interest. The database contains over 379,000 chemical records, of which over 257,000 include chemical structures, and is searchable by Name, Synonym, CAS Registry Number, Molecular Formula, Classification Code, Locator Code, and Structure."
Site Name The Domestic Substances List Search Engine (Environment Canada)
Link http://www.ec.gc.ca/subsnouvelles-newsubs/
Description Of Site The DSL is the sole basis for determining whether a substance is new for the purposes of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. Locating your substance on the DSL does not constitute an endorsement from Environment Canada in respect of use or sale in Canada. Furthermore, the status of the substance on the DSL does not constitute an exemption from the application of any other laws (whether statutes, regulations or other) that may also apply to this substance or related activities.
Site Name The Environmental Residue-Effects Database (ERED)
Link http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/ered/Index.cfm (database)
Description Of Site "The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Residue-Effects Database (ERED) is a compilation of data, taken from the literature, where biological effects (e.g. reduced survival, growth, etc.) and tissue contaminant concentrations were simultaneously measured in the same organism. Currently, the database is limited to those instances where biological effects observed in an organism are linked to a specific contaminant within its tissues."
Site Name Ecotox
Link http://cfpub.epa.gov/ecotox/
Description Of Site "The ECOTOX (ECOTOXicology) database provides single chemical toxicity information for aquatic and terrestrial life. ECOTOX is a useful tool for examining impacts of chemicals on the environment. Peer-reviewed literature is the primary source of information encoded in the database. Pertinent information on the species, chemical, test methods, and results presented by the author(s) are abstracted and entered into the database."
Site Name IRIS Database for Risk Assessment
Link http://www.epa.gov/iris/
Description Of Site "IRIS is a database of human health effects that may result from exposure to various substances found in the environment. IRIS was initially developed for EPA staff in response to a growing demand for consistent information on chemical substances for use in risk assessments, decision-making and regulatory activities. The information in IRIS is intended for those without extensive training in toxicology, but with some knowledge of health sciences."
Site Name Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) - "toxicological profiles"
Link http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/ (home page)
Description Of Site "The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) produces "toxicological profiles" for hazardous substances found at National Priorities List (NPL) sites. These hazardous substances are ranked based on frequency of occurrence at NPL sites, toxicity, and potential for human exposure. Toxicological profiles are developed from a priority list of 275 substances. ATSDR also prepares toxicological profiles for the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Energy (DOE) on substances related to federal sites."
Site Name NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Link http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgsyn-a.html
Description Of Text "The NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards (NPG) is intended as a source of general industrial hygiene information on several hundred chemicals/classes for workers, employers, and occupational health professionals. The NPG does not contain an analysis of all pertinent data; rather it presents key information and data in abbreviated or tabular form for chemicals or substance groupings (e.g. cyanides, fluorides, manganese compounds) that are found in the work environment. The information found in the NPG should help users recognize and control occupational chemical hazards."
Site Name International Chemical Safety Cards
Link http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsneng/neng0000.html
Description Of Site International Chemical Safety Cards for various chemicals.
Site Name MSDS plus CHEMINFO Search
Link http://ccinfoweb.ccohs.ca/msds/search.html
Description Of Site The CFIA has a subscription to this service. Follow this link to obtain CFIA's username and password:
http://agrisource1.agr.gc.ca/Intranet/BasicTemplateAction.do?action=entity&entityId=6924&lang=e
Site Name Health Canada's Priority Substances Assessment Program (PSAP)
Link First Priority Substances List (PSL1) Assessments:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/contaminants/psl1-lsp1/index_e.html
Second Priority Substances List (PSL2) Assessments:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/pubs/contaminants/psl2-lsp2/index_e.html
Description Of Site "The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) requires the establishment of a Priority Substances List (PSL). Substances on this List are of priority for assessment to determine whether environmental exposure to them poses a risk to the health of Canadians or to the environment. A Priority Substance may be a chemical, a group of chemicals, effluents or wastes. There have been two PSLs; PSL1 (see First Priority Substances List Assessments) and PSL2 (see Second Priority Substances List Assessments), which were established by the Ministers of Health and of the Environment, based on the recommendations of a Ministers' Expert Advisory Panel. The responsibility for assessing Priority Substances is shared by Health Canada and Environment Canada. Health Canada assesses the risks to human health from environmental exposure to Priority Substances. Environment Canada assesses the risks to the environment and non-human organisms."
Site Name Ipcs Inchem
Link Homepage
http://www.inchem.org/pages/about.html
Health and Safety Guides (HSGs)
http://www.inchem.org/pages/hsg.html
Environmental Health Criteria Monographs (EHCs)
http://www.inchem.org/pages/ehc.html
JECFA - Monographs & Evaluations
http://www.inchem.org/pages/jecfa.html
Description Of Site IPCS INCHEM is an invaluable tool for those concerned with chemical safety and the sound management of chemicals.
Produced through cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) and the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS); IPCS INCHEM directly responds to one of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) priority actions to consolidate current, internationally peer-reviewed chemical safety-related publications and database records from international bodies, for public access.
IPCS INCHEM offers quick and easy electronic access to thousands of searchable full-text documents on chemical risks and the sound management of chemicals, helping countries fulfill their commitments under UNCED's Agenda 21, Chapter 19.
Site Name The FAOSTAT Database:
Codex Alimentarius: Pesticide Residues In Food"
Codex Alimentarius: Veterinary Drug Residues in Food
Link http://faostat.fao.org/faostat/collections?subset=FoodQuality
Description Of Site Maximum Residue Limits for Pesticide Residues in Food and Veterinary Drug Residues in Food
Site Name The Codex Alimentarius
Link http://www.codexalimentarius.net/web/index_en.jsp
Description Of Site "The Codex Alimentarius Commission was created in 1963 by FAO and WHO to develop food standards, guidelines and related texts such as codes of practice under the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme. The main purposes of this Programme are protecting health of the consumers and ensuring fair trade practices in the food trade, and promoting coordination of all food standards work undertaken by international governmental and non-governmental organizations."
Site Name Chemical Assessment Reports published by the Australian Government
Link http://www.nicnas.gov.au/publications/CAR.asp
Description Of Site NICNAS is located in the Office of Chemical Safety, within the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Group of Regulators, of the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.
Textbook The Merck Index
Description The Merck Index is a one-volume encyclopedia of chemicals, drugs and biologicals that contains more than 10,000 monographs. Each monograph in this authoritative reference source is a concise description of a single substance or a small group of closely related compounds.
Textbook The Handbook of Industrial Surfactants (Volumes 1 and 2), Third Edition
Description "This two-volume reference set, in its third edition, serves both to integrate information on surfactant chemicals and materials that are currently available throughout the world and to document surfactant products that are no longer sold but still need to be identified."

Note: information resources and links were accessed on October 6, 2015

Appendix 11: Information Resources - Microbiology

Canadian Departments/Agencies

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

1. Animal pathogens: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/sci/bio/anima/disemala/disemalae.shtml

2. Plant Pests regulated by Canada: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/plaveg/protect/listpespare.shtml

Environment Canada

3. Environment Canada and Health Canada. 2011. Framework for Science-Based Risk Assessment of Micro-Organisms Regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999. http://www.ec.gc.ca/subsnouvelles-newsubs/default.asp?lang=En&n=120842D5-1

4. Environment Canada, Report EPS 1/RM/44. March 2004. Guidance document for testing the pathogenicity and toxicity of new microbial substances to aquatic and terrestrial organisms.

5. Environment Canada, Report EPS 1/RM/46. March 2005 (with June 2007 amendments). Guidance document on statistical Methods for Environmental Toxicity Tests.

6. Environment Canada. December 2013. Organisms on the Domestic Substances List (DSL): https://www.ec.gc.ca/subsnouvelles-newsubs/default.asp?lang=En&n=C4E09AE7-1 (Contains several risk group 2 microorganisms).

Health Canada/Public Health Agency of Canada

7. Human pathogen list: Chapter 2 of the Health Canada Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines provided a list of infectious agents by Risk Group. For questions about the Risk Group classification of specific organisms, please contact the Office of Laboratory Security.

8. Non-pathogenic organisms that do not require permit to import into Canada: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/ols-bsl/pathogen/pdf/pathogensfinal-092001.pdf

International Resources

American Type Culture Collection (ATCC)

9. Cultures from the ATCC Bacteriology Collection: http://www.atcc.org/CulturesandProducts/Microbiology/BacteriaandPhages/tabid/176/Default.aspx

OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development)

10. OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development). 1998a. Principles of Good Laboratory Practice (as revised in 1997), No 1 - OECD Series on Principles of Good Laboratory Practice and Compliance Monitoring, ENV/MC/CHEM(98)17, 41 p., Environment Directorate, Paris, France.

11. OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development). 1999d. The application of the GLP principles to Short Term Studies, No 7 (revised) - OECD Series on Principles of Good Laboratory Practice and Compliance Monitoring, ENV/JM/MONO(99)23, 16 p., Environment Directorate, Paris, France.

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