China's building codes are to be tightened in the wake of the
severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak to prevent the
spread of contagious diseases through substandard construction.
An
official from the China National Engineering Research Centerfor
Human Settlement said here Wednesday that the center would issue
new construction codes covering courtyards and public
areas,plumbing and sewerage, and sound insulation.
The center is subject to the newly-established State-owned Assets
Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council
(SASAC), which is responsible for setting standards for the real
estate industry.
Zhao Xu, dean of the promotion and demonstration department of the
center, said the current codes for public health standards were
first issued in 2001. These standards had proved effective inmany
buildings, and were improved every year according to demand.
SARS had highlighted public health in buildings, and relevant
guidelines would be added this year, said Zhao.
Yang Jinfeng, an official of the Department of Standards and Norms
of the Ministry of Construction, said the current public health
standards were comprehensive and suited market demand, but
implementation was unsatisfactory.
Yang said many buildings in China were substandard, citing small
doors and windows, narrow spaces between buildings, and
poordrainage.
Yang said all developers and construction companies must strictly
follow building codes, and residents should be given morepublic
health ducations.
The ministry would also strengthen inspections of these standards
this year, said Yang.
(Xinhua News Agency May 29, 2003)
