Canadian broadcasters turn down the volume on TV ads

Canadian broadcasters have implemented volume controls so that the commercials during TV shows are no longer louder than the programming itself.

The Canadian Radio, Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) last year surveyed the Canadian population and received 7,000 complaints about the higher volume in television ads, rapidtvnews.com reports.

“Broadcasters have allowed ear-splitting ads to disturb viewers and have left us little choice but to set out clear rules that will put an end to excessively loud ads,” said Konrad von Finckenstein, the head of the CRTC at the time.

“Those new rules have now passed into law. Canadians will be able to enjoy their favourite television programs without having to adjust the volume during commercial breaks,” said CRTC’s Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais.

“We appreciate the efforts undertaken by the broadcasting industry to conform to the new standard and ensure that programs and commercials are transmitted at a similar volume.” he added.