BEIJING, May 31 -- Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing on Friday stressed the need for sustained efforts to improve public security knowledge and strengthen the public's defense against workplace safety risks.

Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when addressing a ceremony marking the launch of a monthlong campaign to improve workplace safety.

Zhang called on all localities, government departments and organizations to ensure the strict implementation of relevant regulations, spread knowledge and skills related to security, lay a solid foundation to support safe workplaces, and improve the public's security awareness, understanding and response capabilities.

Work should be done to identify safety hazards such as blocked fire escapes and the closure of emergency exits, tackle potential safety hazards associated with such areas as gas and e-bikes, and prevent mountain torrents, geological disasters and waterlogging, among other hidden risks, Zhang said.