BEIJING, Oct. 31  -- China's top legislature began deliberating a draft law on nuclear safety on Monday.

The draft, currently being examined at the bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, specifies safety standards for nuclear facilities; emergency preparedness and response systems; and rules for information disclosure.

It also details the responsibilities of staff and supervisory bodies, and sanctions for those who fail in their duties.

The legislation aims to enable China to utilize nuclear energy safely; ensure the security of facilities and materials; and prevent and cope with accidents while protecting employees, the general public and the environment.

Safety is the top priority of the nuclear cause, said Zhang Yunchuan, vice chairman of the NPC's Environment Protection and Resources Conservation Committee, in a report to the session.

The legislation will strengthen supervision and increase public confidence in nuclear safety, he said.

It will also reassure the world about China's safety management, and promote international cooperation in this regard, he said.

By the end of June this year, 31 nuclear power generating units are operating on the Chinese mainland, with a total installed capacity of 29.69 million kilowatts. Another 23 units with capacity of 26.09 million kw are under construction.

By 2020, the number of China's nuclear power generating units is expected to be the second in the world, according to Zhang.