Using an evidence-based safety approach to develop China’s urban safety strategies for the improvement of urban safety: From an accident prevention perspective

Abstract

Accidents (such as hazardous chemical accidents and fires) have adverse effects on urban safety and sustainable development. Many countries, such as China, are making great efforts to develop better urban safety strategies to prevent and mitigate accidents in urban areas and to keep cities safer. At national level, and from an accident prevention perspective, this study uses an evidence-based safety approach to propose potential strategies for China’s urban safety. The contributions include: (1) the identification and discussion of major urban safety problems and challenges in China, and (2) the development of China’s urban safety strategies based on available evidence. This study attempts to provide useful evidence and suggestions for future urban safety management, both within China and in other countries. However, because this paper discusses China’s urban safety at macro level, more detailed studies on China’s urban safety should be carried out for a deeper understanding and a more targeted solution for China’s urban safety.