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Chemical production must eradicate four hidden dangers
In 2008, a series of security incidents led to a significant decline in safety standards within the chemical industry. By the end of the previous year, there were initial signs of improvement in safety management, but this progress was quickly undermined early this year. Why is it so difficult for safety management to keep up with the pace of industrial development? And why do the number of hazardous chemical leaks and explosions seem to rise alongside the speed of industrialization?
At a video conference on January 22nd, the State Administration of Work Safety Supervision conducted a detailed analysis of the current safety risks faced by chemical and hazardous chemical companies. According to the administration, four major issues have been exposed in the chemical sector this year:
First, the foundation of safety management is weak, and many companies lack proper oversight. China’s chemical industry consists largely of small and medium-sized enterprises, with over 90% being SMEs. In some provinces, more than 40% of chemical companies employ fewer than 20 people, and some even reach 50%. These small firms often use outdated technology, poor equipment, and low levels of automation, resulting in insufficient safety investment and low employee competence. Many companies fail to implement a clear safety responsibility system or maintain effective safety management structures.
Second, the “three simultaneous†principle—where safety measures are implemented alongside design, construction, and operation—has not been properly enforced. The revision of industry standards has lagged behind technological advancements, leading to lower entry barriers and unsafe facilities operating without proper safety reviews. Some small chemical plants have been built and put into operation without necessary safety assessments, increasing the risk of accidents. For example, a fire and explosion at Boyang Chemical in Wuyi City, Zhejiang Province, killed four people, with investigations revealing unapproved process changes and unsafe facility layouts.
Third, violations of safety regulations remain widespread. Despite having safety policies in place, many companies fail to enforce them strictly. A poisoning incident at Taiyuan Huayuan Chemical Co., Ltd., in Shanxi, resulted in three deaths due to inadequate monitoring and improper procedures. Operators entered hazardous areas without protective gear, highlighting serious gaps in compliance and awareness.
Fourth, safety training is lacking, especially among small and medium-sized enterprises. Employees often lack the knowledge and skills needed to handle emergencies. In the case of the “1·1†poisoning accident in Shanxi and the “1·9†asphyxiation incident in Chongqing, workers failed to recognize hazards and acted improperly, leading to further casualties.
The year 2008 became known as the “year of managing hidden dangers†for safety production. Addressing these underlying risks and preventing the rising trend of chemical accidents is now a top priority for safety regulators. While efforts are underway to stabilize the situation, the path to achieving long-term safety remains challenging and requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders.