An official from the China National Engineering Research Centerfor Human Settlement said here Wednesday that the center would issue new construction codes covering courtyards and public areas,plumbing and sewerage, and sound insulation.

The center is subject to the newly-established State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC), which is responsible for setting standards for the real estate industry.

Zhao Xu, dean of the promotion and demonstration department of the center, said the current codes for public health standards were first issued in 2001. These standards had proved effective inmany buildings, and were improved every year according to demand.

SARS had highlighted public health in buildings, and relevant guidelines would be added this year, said Zhao.

Yang Jinfeng, an official of the Department of Standards and Norms of the Ministry of Construction, said the current public health standards were comprehensive and suited market demand, but implementation was unsatisfactory.

Yang said many buildings in China were substandard, citing small doors and windows, narrow spaces between buildings, and poordrainage.

Yang said all developers and construction companies must strictly follow building codes, and residents should be given morepublic health ducations.

The ministry would also strengthen inspections of these standards this year, said Yang.

(Xinhua News Agency May 29, 2003)