Safety & Legal Framework

Criminal Code of Canada - Weapons Regulations

The Criminal Code of Canada, specifically Part III dealing with firearms and other weapons, establishes the legal framework for the possession, use, and distribution of weapons including non-lethal devices. Section 84 defines what constitutes a prohibited weapon, restricted weapon, and non-restricted weapon. Non-lethal devices such as conducted energy weapons (CEWs), commonly known as Tasers, are classified as prohibited weapons under the Criminal Code, meaning their possession is restricted to law enforcement agencies and authorized security personnel.

Under Section 91 of the Criminal Code, unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon can result in criminal charges carrying penalties of up to five years imprisonment for indictable offences. However, exemptions exist for authorized users including peace officers, military personnel, and licensed security professionals who have obtained the necessary permits and completed required training programs. Our products are designed for sale exclusively to these authorized entities in full compliance with Canadian law.

Firearms Act and Regulations

The Firearms Act of 1995 and its associated regulations work in conjunction with the Criminal Code to regulate weapons in Canada. While the Act primarily addresses firearms, certain provisions extend to devices that may be classified similarly based on their mechanism of action. The Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) in each province and territory has the authority to issue business licenses for the sale and distribution of regulated weapons to authorized purchasers.

TacticalEdge maintains all required federal and provincial licenses for the manufacture and distribution of non-lethal defense systems. Our business operations are subject to regular inspections by the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program to ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable regulations. We maintain detailed records of all sales transactions as required by law, ensuring full traceability and accountability.

United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force

The United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials, adopted in 1990, establishes international standards for the appropriate use of force by law enforcement agencies. These principles emphasize that non-violent means should be attempted first, and when force is unavoidable, it must be proportionate to the legitimate objective. The principles specifically encourage the development and deployment of non-lethal incapacitating weapons to reduce the need for lethal force.

Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law

International humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, governs the conduct of armed conflict and establishes rules regarding the means and methods of warfare. While these laws primarily address lethal weapons, they also apply to non-lethal weapons used in armed conflict situations. The fundamental principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution must be observed regardless of the type of weapon employed.

Health Canada and Safety Testing

All TacticalEdge products undergo rigorous safety testing to ensure they meet or exceed applicable health and safety standards. For products that emit electromagnetic radiation, such as directed energy devices, we comply with Health Canada's Safety Code 6, which establishes limits for human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic energy. Our microwave-based systems are designed to operate well within safe exposure limits, ensuring that temporary discomfort does not translate into lasting harm.

Training and Operator Certification

The safe and effective use of non-lethal weapons requires proper training. TacticalEdge offers comprehensive training programs for all our products, covering operational procedures, safety protocols, legal considerations, and scenario-based exercises. Training is delivered by certified instructors with extensive law enforcement and military experience, ensuring that operators receive practical, real-world guidance.