The Canadian Registration Number (CRN) is an alpha-numerical identifier which serves as proof that a pressure equipment design has been registered for use by a provincial or territorial regulator.

CPCA is been part of a consortium put in place to address concerns that the cost, administrative burden and time associated with the CRN process impede investment, innovation, and product choice.

While the ultimate goal remains harmonization, the current path is a mutual recognition model. This does not make the process less expensive but will greatly expedite certification.

The reconciliation agreement is based on the mutual recognition of design reviews to:

• Reduce the number of CRN applications required to be submitted by manufacturers
• Reduce the number of CRN design reviews needing to be conducted

It was entered into force for participating jurisdictions on January 1, 2020

As of Jan. 1, 2020, the RA for CRN is in effect in British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Saskatchewan, and Yukon

• Nunavut has indicated that it is intends to sign, but has not yet done so
• Manufacturers need only have their design reviewed in one of these jurisdictions, and that review will be recognized as valid in the others

Pressure equipment must still be registered in each province or territory where it will be used. This is to ensure that regulators remain aware of what equipment is approved for use in their jurisdictions

Provinces and territories (P/Ts) still control their own design review and registration processes. Mutual recognition means that there was no requirement to change these processes. Some P/Ts have arrangements to facilitate registration in other provinces and territories, but there is currently no common system.

Work is underway to identify and pursue additional improvements in the efficiency of CRN design review and registration processes. A Steering committee has been formed – PTAC, ACI (Association of Chief Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors) and NPSAC (National Public Safety Advisory Committee)

• Steering Committee is working with P/Ts to develop clearer communications
• Steering Committee is working with P/Ts on investigating possible information-sharing solutions that may further improve and streamline review and registration processes for manufacturers
• Steering Committee is working with P/Ts to explore development of other improvements such as a standardized/common application form

Contact cpca@cpca-assoc.com to learn more.