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ECCC Chromium Electroplating Regulations: Preparing for 2026 Release Testing

  • Apr 13
  • 2 min read

Overview of ECCC Chromium Electroplating, Anodizing and Reverse Etching Regulations

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) released the Chromium Electroplating, Anodizing and Reverse Etching Regulations in 2009 to limit hexavalent chromium emissions from facilities that use chromic acid in electroplating, anodizing and reverse etching operations.  The regulations were amended in 2020 to improve consistency and clarity in the regulations and remove outdated references.


Compliance Options for Controlling Hexavalent Chromium Emissions

The regulations require any facility that uses 50 kg or more of chromium trioxide per calendar year for electroplating, anodizing or reverse etching to limit the release of hexavalent chromium compounds using one of the following control technologies:


  • Install and maintain a control device to limit hexavalent chromium before its released into the environment (point source option), 

  • Limit surface tension on the tanks, or

  • Use tank covers.


What Are the Release Testing Requirements?

Facilities that elect to install and maintain a control device, typically a scrubber, must perform a release test every 5 years to demonstrate that the hexavalent chromium emissions are less than the limit of 0.03 mg/Rm3.  


Who Needs to Test in 2026?

Any facility that is operating on the original 5-year testing schedule, meaning they haven’t failed a release test, replaced their control device, modified their tanks or made changes to the ventilation system, will most likely need to test in the 2026 calendar year.


How to Prepare for ECCC Release Testing

  1. Contact Alliance to get a quote and schedule testing

  2. Submit a signed Release Test Notice to ECCC at least 30 days prior to testing

  3. Record the rectifier amperage for the 30 days of use preceding the Release Test

  4. Conduct the Release Test with the rectifier amperage set to the average amperage for the previous 30 days of use

  5. Submit the Release Test Report to ECCC within 75 days of the final test




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