The authority is currently running a public consultation, allowing stakeholders to review the proposal and submit feedback before finalizing the requirements.
The consultation covers two standards: RSS-Gen Issue 6, which defines general compliance requirements, and RSS-310 Issue 6, which addresses licence-exempt Category II equipment.
Participation and Regulatory Context
RSS-Gen defines the core compliance framework for both licensed and licence-exempt radio apparatus. It sets requirements for certification, testing procedures, and labelling obligations.
RSS-310 complements this framework by addressing Category II equipment. Although this equipment does not require certification, manufacturers and importers must ensure compliance with all applicable technical and operational requirements.
Changes from Issue 5 to Issue 6
The RSS Gen update introduces several modifications compared to Issue 5. One major change expands the frequency range for unwanted emissions measurements up to 750 GHz.
The draft also introduces updated requirements for calibrating measurement equipment and revises test site validation procedures in line with ANSI standards.
The new version simplifies labelling requirements by allowing QR codes and offering flexibility for small devices, including placement in documentation or packaging.
In addition, the update reorganizes several provisions. It moves requirements for stand-alone receivers and passive RFID tags to RSS-310, creating a clearer structure between general and device-specific rules.
RSS-310 Issue 6 also introduces new requirements for stand-alone receivers and passive RFID tags. At the same time, it simplifies labelling and user manual provisions by aligning them with RSS-Gen.
Compliance and Market Access
The update keeps the existing classification framework. Category I equipment must obtain certification and appear in the Radio Equipment List before companies can market it in Canada.
Category II equipment remains exempt from certification. However, manufacturers, importers, and distributors must ensure that this equipment complies with all applicable standards defined in RSS-310 and RSS-Gen.
After publication, a six-month transition period will apply. During this time, companies may comply with either Issue 5 or Issue 6. Once the transition period ends, all equipment entering the Canadian market must comply with Issue 6.
Key Considerations
This consultation phase gives stakeholders a direct opportunity to influence the final regulatory framework. It also helps manufacturers and other industry participants prepare for updated testing methods, revised labelling practices, and clarified compliance obligations introduced in this RSS Gen update.
How to Participate in the RSS Gen Update Consultation
As part of this RSS Gen update, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) invites stakeholders to submit feedback. Interested parties can send comments through the official consultation channels.
Stakeholders can use the General Inquiry form, send emails to the consultation address, or submit responses by mail to the Regulatory Standards Directorate in Ottawa.
This process allows manufacturers, certification bodies, and other stakeholders to shape the final version of the standard before it becomes mandatory.
Impact Assesment
Technical Standards? ✅ Yes
Type Approval & Market Access? ✅ Yes
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ✅ Yes
Spectrum Management? ✅ Yes
