What you need to know about the new regulation
Starting today, on December 15, all federally regulated employers are required to offer free period products (tampons and pads) at their offices without any cost.
If you haven't implemented this new initiative yet, Alea has got you covered! Our turnkey solution includes a dispenser, organic and sustainable tampons and pads, and internal communication support to help your team seamlessly adapt to this groundbreaking initiative.
Why was this regulation implemented in the first place?
Well, it is no surprise that menstruation is natural, and menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, are essential to the health of Canadians. They enable menstruating individuals to fully participate in the workforce and society at large.
What do employers need to do in order to comply?
Availability of menstrual products in every restroom
The regulations mandate the presence of menstrual products in all restroom facilities, irrespective of their designated gender. This inclusivity extends to female-identified, male-identified, and all-gender restrooms, ensuring that menstrual products are universally accessible. Unrestricted access not only enhances the well-being of menstruating employees but also promotes a sense of safety and inclusivity, allowing individuals to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity.
Additionally, employers are required to provide a covered container for the disposal of menstrual products.
Alternate workplace locations for accessing menstrual products with reasonable privacy
While it may not always be feasible to provide menstrual products in every restroom within an employer-controlled workplace, the regulations acknowledge this challenge and offer flexibility. In such instances, employers have the option to designate an alternate location within the same workplace, ensuring accessibility to employees at all times. This alternative space must also guarantee a reasonable degree of privacy.
Information about menstrual product types
Under the regulations, menstrual products include both tampons and menstrual pads.
When choosing menstrual products for their workplaces, employers could consider the following:
- employee feedback and actual use of the products
- body sizes and menstrual flow
- product types, sizes, and absorbency
- cultural values, beliefs, and experience with menstrual product use
- scent-free options and environmentally friendly products, such as tampons with cardboard applicators, are available. (It turns out that Alea's period products are fragrance-free, plastic-free, and biodegradable.)
We believe that this initiative will make a meaningful impact on workplace wellness, break the stigma, and promote inclusivity.
Contact us for more information:
info@aleaprotection.com