PRAGMATIC REGULATORY DESIGN: THE CASE OF HUMAN PATHOGENS AND TOXINS REGULATIONS IN CANADA

Abstract

This paper examines the tensions involved in regulating innovative, flexible organizations
and their activities in the interest of public health and security. Drawing on a longitudinal
case of regulatory design, it traces how a government agency used an approach that: 1) took
into account situated practice and multiplicity of experiences, 2) worked through inquiry and
dialogue, and 3) considered and drew on available resources to decide on a regulatory design.
Such an approach examines simultaneously regulatory design, enforcement possibilities, and
organizational capacities. It discusses the implications of such decision-making processes for
the regulated organization as well as for public health and security.