Health Canada is consulting Canadians on updated recommendations designed to strengthen the country's public health response to nuclear and radiological emergencies.

The proposed guidance updates Canada's existing emergency-planning recommendations and introduces new criteria that authorities could use when deciding whether protective measures are necessary during a radiation emergency.

The updated approach emphasizes balancing the potential health risks of radiation exposure against the consequences of disruptive measures such as evacuation or sheltering. Health Canada says authorities should take a comprehensive approach that considers overall public well-being when responding to an emergency.

The consultation is particularly relevant to public health agencies, emergency planners, municipalities and organizations involved in nuclear emergency preparedness.

Health officials are seeking feedback on the proposed recommendations before finalizing the updated guidance. The consultation is scheduled to close on August 10, 2026.

The initiative highlights Canada's continuing effort to strengthen health emergency preparedness, radiation protection and coordinated public safety planning in the event of a nuclear or radiological incident.