SAWS finds irregularities in exploding firework plant

The fireworks factory where an explosion on Monday killed 13 people was found to have been illegally producing strong fireworks, according to China's top work safety supervisor.

The Nanyang Export Fireworks Factory in central China's Hunan Province was found to have changed function of workshops without authorization, producing stronger fireworks that were not allowed according to its production permit, the State Administration of Work Safety (SAWS) said on Wednesday.

Disorganized management and excessive employees led to higher casualties, a preliminary report of the SAWS showed.

A total of 47 workers were on shift when the blast occurred. In addition to 13 dead, it also injured 33 people, including three passersby, and one is still missing. Only three workers were unhurt.

Further investigation is still underway and the authorities promised to release reports in a timely manner.

The SAWS has urged safety watchdogs to strengthen supervising efforts to prevent this kind of tragedy from occurring again.