Ordos city in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region has introduced a "safety partner" service model to improve safety management and create a more business-friendly environment.

The initiative shifts the focus of safety oversight from inspection and penalties toward service and prevention, helping businesses identify risks and resolve safety issues more efficiently.

Under a "service on demand" approach, the Ordos municipal commerce authorities provide tailored guidance for key commercial sectors, including fuel retail, supermarkets, catering, hospitality, and recycling.

Businesses can request assistance based on their specific safety needs, including fire evacuation, gas and electrical safety, and emergency response.

So far, the city's commerce authorities have responded to 67 requests and helped resolve more than 150 safety management and hazard-related issues.

The city has also introduced on-site "safety consultations", offering one-on-one guidance on issues such as aging electrical systems, improper kitchen layouts, and incomplete safety procedures. Experts provide practical, low-cost solutions tailored to each business' operating conditions.

To minimize repeated inspections by different departments, Ordos has launched joint visits involving commerce, emergency management, fire and rescue, and housing authorities. The coordinated strategy integrates guidance on fire safety, gas, electricity, and emergency management into a single visit, while online groups provide businesses with ongoing policy guidance and safety assistance.

The city is also strengthening risk prevention through advance warnings. Based on seasonal conditions, holiday consumption peaks, and industry operating patterns, five risk-alert notices have been issued covering fire, gas, electrical, and emergency response risks.