China warns metals firms of severe punishment for safety breaches

[BEIJING] China's smelting and non-ferrous metals firms must step up their safety practices and face "strict penalties" for non-compliance, according to new rules taking effect from March 1.

Companies should deal with "hidden dangers" in the workplace promptly, the State Administration of Work Safety says in a statement published on its website on Wednesday.

About 40,000 workplace accidents occurred in China, the world's biggest metals consumer, in the first 10 months of 2017, down 26.9 per cent year-on-year, according to the state-run China Daily.

'Businesses that refuse to deal with identified threats face temporary shutdown and fines of 100,000 to 500,000 yuan (S$20,620 to S$103,100); fines for individuals responsible will range from 20,000-50,000 yuan.

Safety supervisors and inspectors will be punished for abusing power or neglecting duties, and face criminal investigation if appropriate, the statement says.

REUTERS

About 40,000 workplace accidents occurred in China, the world's biggest metals consumer, in the first 10 months of 2017, down 26.9 pct y/y, according to the state-run China Daily * Businesses that refuse to deal with identified threats face temporary shutdown and fines of 100,000-500,000 yuan ($16,000-$79,000); fines for individuals responsible will range from 20,000-50,000 yuan * Safety supervisors and inspectors will be punished for abusing power or neglecting duties, and face criminal investigation if appropriate, the statement says.

REUTERS