BEIJING — China reported sound production safety records in July with fewer production-related accidents and deaths compared with the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management.

The ministry reported one less severe accident and 14 fewer deaths from the same month last year, while moderately severe accidents and deaths in July down by 24.4 percent and 28.2 percent year-on-year, respectively.

Chemical plants and coal mines are the most notable sites of production accidents, with 15 people dead in a gas factory blast on July 19 in Central China's Henan province, according to an official of the Ministry.

Efforts should be made to defuse safety risks, eradicate problems and enforce accountability to prevent accidents in areas such as hazardous chemicals and mines, the official added.

As the country braces for a potential spate of disasters like typhoons, floods, mudslides and landslides in August, the ministry also urges local authorities to issue disaster alert in time and alarm production personnel and residents in affected areas.

China introduced a regulation on production safety in April and carried out inspections in the same regard.