A draft amendment to a workplace safety law would significantly increase punishments for companies that violate regulations.

Among other rules, the draft proposes that companies be fined up to 1 million yuan ($163,000) if they use uncertified safety equipment in high-risk industries such as mining and the storage of dangerous goods. The current fine is 50,000 yuan.

The draft, which was brought forward by the State Administration of Work Safety, was reviewed for the first round by the legislators during the bi-monthly session of the NPC Standing Committee that ended on Thursday.

Emergency rescue teams should be established in key industries to improve response to accidents, the draft said.

- An Baijie