Companies now required to monitor workplace hazards

Beginning next month, Chinese businesses and factories that violate occupational hazard regulations will be shut down and face a maximum penalty of 300,000 yuan ($44,000).

"If an employee's health has been affected by dust, toxic substances and other harmful factors during occupational activities, those harms can be defined as occupational hazards," according to a temporary provision released recently by China's work safety watchdog.

The provisions were formulated by the State Administration of Work Safety (SAWS). SAWS is in charge of monitoring and inspecting work safety practices, halting work hazards, issuing licenses, investigating accidents and stopping illegal work practices.