China adopts strict fireworks rules
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2006-01-25 16:55

The recent regulation of the State Council, or the central government, on the production, transport and sale of pyrotechnics institutes severe penalties for illegal activities.

According to the latest regulation, fireworks factories must have a production permit and strictly implement national industrial standards. All factory workers should receive job training provided by their employers.

The regulation also sets specific rules for the transport of fireworks, including vehicle speed limits and passenger bans.

The regulation says nobody should be allowed to take public transport with fireworks or mail fireworks through public networks.

Illegal manufacturers will face penalties ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 yuan (about US$ 2,500 to 12,500), illegal transporters 10,000 to 50,000 yuan and individuals who try to mail fireworks will be fined from 200 to 1,000 yuan.

China has a long history of making fireworks and fireworks displays. However, many of its fireworks factories are still primitive with poor production conditions.

Statistics released by the State Administration of Work Safety show that from January to November 2005, there were 87 accidents in pyrotechnics factories, claiming 187 lives.