A teratogen is a substance which can cause birth defects. Teratogenic means able to cause birth defects. Teratogenicity is the ability of a chemical to cause birth defects. Teratogenicity results from a harmful effect to the embryo or the fetus/foetus. | The Canadian Controlled Products Regulations describe technical criteria for identifying materials which have teratogenicity and embryotoxicity. (See also Reproductive Effects.) Other jurisdictions may also have defined specific criteria. The Controlled Products Regulations are part of the national Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). | Under the U.S. OSHA HAZCOM Standard, materials which have teratogenic effects are included under reproductive Target Organ Effects.