Canadian Paper Sizes
| Size | Width x Height (mm) | Width x Height (in) | Width x Height (cm) | Width x Height (m) | Width x Height (yards) | Aspect Ratio | ANSI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 560 x 860 | 22.0 x 33.9 | 56.0 x 86.0 | 0.56 x 0.86 | 0.612 x 0.941 | 1:1.5357 | D |
| P2 | 430 x 560 | 16.9 x 22.0 | 43.0 x 56.0 | 0.43 x 0.56 | 0.470 x 0.612 | 1:1.3023 | C |
| P3 | 280 x 430 | 11.0 x 16.9 | 28.0 x 43.0 | 0.28 x 0.43 | 0.306 x 0.470 | 1:1.5357 | B |
| P4 | 215 x 280 | 8.5 x 11.0 | 21.5 x 28.0 | 0.215 x 0.28 | 0.235 x 0.306 | 1:1.3023 | A |
| P5 | 140 x 210 | 5.5 x 8.3 | 14.0 x 21.0 | 0.14 x 0.21 | 0.153 x 0.230 | 1:1.5 | – |
| P6 | 105 x 140 | 4.1 x 5.5 | 10.5 x 14.0 | 0.105 x 0.14 | 0.115 x 0.153 | 1:1.3333 | – |
Canadian paper sizes have a unique history that reflects the country’s geographical and economic ties with the United States as well as its commitment to international standards. While Canada officially adopted the ISO paper sizes in 1972, the proximity and business relationships with the United States have ensured that US paper sizes remain prevalent across North America. This dual system underscores the practical challenges and adaptations in standardizing paper sizes within a global and regional context.
Adoption of ISO Paper Sizes
In 1972, Canada decided to adopt the ISO paper sizes, a system used by the majority of the world and designed to standardize paper dimensions globally. These sizes, including the widely used A4, are part of the A series under the ISO 216 standard, which is based on a consistent aspect ratio of the square root of two (approximately 1.414), allowing each paper size to be halved or doubled while retaining the same proportions. This move was part of Canada’s broader effort to align more closely with international norms, facilitating easier trade and communication with countries outside North America.
Introduction of Metric ANSI Sizes
Despite the adoption of ISO sizes, the pervasive use of US paper sizes (like Letter, Legal, and Ledger) necessitated a practical approach that would accommodate both systems. In response, the Standards Council of Canada introduced metric versions of the US ANSI sizes in 1976 with the Paper Sizes for Correspondence CAN 2-9.60M Standard. This initiative was aimed at creating a hybrid system that could bridge the gap between the two standards, enhancing compatibility in administrative, educational, and professional contexts.
CAN 2-9.60M and the P Series
The CAN 2-9.60M standard introduced the P series of paper sizes, ranging from P1 to P6. These sizes corresponded to the ANSI A, B, C, and D sizes but were rounded to the nearest 5 mm to simplify use in metric systems. Additionally, the standard included two extra sizes smaller than ANSI A, providing more options for various printing and correspondence needs. This adaptation was meant to offer a practical solution that would allow for the continued use of existing printing and document-handling equipment designed for ANSI sizes, while also moving towards a more metric-based system.
Obsolescence and Current Status
Over time, it appears that the P series paper sizes have fallen into obsolescence. The reasons for this could include the dominance of the ISO and ANSI standards which are deeply entrenched in global and North American markets, respectively. The specific needs that the P series aimed to address may have been gradually overshadowed by the widespread acceptance and usage of standard ISO and ANSI sizes, leading to a decline in the practical necessity for a separate series.
Conclusion
The story of paper sizes in Canada illustrates the complexities involved in balancing national standards with international norms and neighboring influences. The Canadian approach reflects a pragmatism that accommodates both the global ISO standards and the regional preferences for US ANSI sizes. Understanding the development and eventual decline of the P series offers insight into how standards evolve and sometimes recede, influenced by technological, economic, and cultural shifts. As digital communication continues to rise, the emphasis on physical paper sizes may diminish, but the legacy of such standards will continue to influence how information is formatted and disseminated across borders.
