China is to establish a procedure to help guarantee safety in school buildings, according to a circular issued on November 12 by the State Council, China's cabinet.

The procedure will include safety checks twice a year and the providing of emergency warnings, easily accessible safety information and training on risk-aversion management strategies. Local government chiefs will be held responsible for any casualties caused by inadequately built structures.

Policies covering primary and secondary schools were put into practice back in 2009 and have since sharply reduced accidents. According to the circular, however, there is still plenty that can be done as school facilities, especially those in rural areas, are far from perfect.

Local governments are to step up the repair, reinforcement, reconstruction and expansion of schools until all campuses meet national standards.