Inhalant Abuse and the Public Health Act

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Information for Manitoba Retailers

The Manitoba government has introduced provisions in the Public Health Act to address the sale of intoxicating substances.

These provisions are intended to deter individuals and retailers from repackaging and/or selling harmful substances to someone they suspect will use these substances as a way to get high.

What has changed?

The law allows authorities to seize products from individuals and retailers who are knowingly selling these products as intoxicants.

Why are these provisions in the law?

The use of everyday products for intoxication is a growing problem. Users inhale the fumes from these products to “get high” leading to consequences that can be devastating for individuals, families and communities.

What kinds of products?

They are everyday products that, when used as directed, are not dangerous. However, when inhaled to create an intoxicating effect, these products can be harmful to physical and mental health and, in some cases, potentially fatal. Examples include:

• glue
• cleaning solvents
• paint thinners
• nail polish remover
• aerosol disinfectants
• gasoline

How can retailers help?

• Identify products that can be used as intoxicating substances.
• Shelve these products responsibly.
• Educate staff.
• Know your customers and the community in which you operate.
• Control sales where appropriate.
• Understand your customers’ basic human rights. You can respect these rights while controlling the sale of intoxicating substances. (For more information, refer to the Manitoba Human Rights Commission brochure for retailers or visit www.gov.mb.ca/hrc)

What are the consequences for retailers?

In Manitoba, these products may be taken away from a retailer if the retailer is found to be knowingly selling solvents to a person who will use the intoxicating substance to get high or repackage and/or resell the substance for that purpose. If that happens, the retailer will receive a notice to appear in court to justify why the products should be returned. Retailers may also face suspension or cancellation of tax authorizations issued under The Retail Sales Tax Act.

Solvent Abuse

Solvent or Inhalant Abuse can be a serious problem in our communities. Sniffing solvents
for the purpose of getting high can lead to serious health effects – both physical and mental. In some cases, inhalant abuse can cause death.

Retailers are part of the community they serve.They are expected to act responsibly when it comes to the sale of potentially harmful substances, such as solvents. Manitoba Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs recognizes that most retailers are responsible community members and thanks them for their ongoing co-operation in helping to appropriately control the sale of solvents and other dangerous inhalants.