Guizhou is faced with a tough situation regarding the control and prevention of occupational diseases, said the Guizhou Provincial Bureau of Work Safety. There are about 70,000 enterprises with occupational disease risks in seven industries, such as metal smelting and processing, wood furniture manufacturing and construction technology.

Occupational diseases are often chronic diseases that affect entire groups. The frequent occurrence of occupational diseases has caught the public's attention in recent years. The causes include irresponsible employers and hazardous working environments.

Guizhou has launched a pilot program for occupational health standardization in 90 enterprises in the province this year. The enterprises will be guided in the adoption of occupational health measures including improving work environments, individual protection and comprehensive management to control and prevent occupational diseases.

Over 500 enterprises with occupational disease risks are required to remove hidden dangers causing occupational diseases this year. Meanwhile, the occupational disease risks in the enterprises will be examined and assessed. Enterprises with occupational disease risks must also report projects with occupational disease risks honestly and in a timely manner.