BEIJING -- Chinese state media are reporting that a preliminary investigation into a nursing home fire that killed 38 people has blamed poor building construction and lax safety checks.

The official Xinhua News Agency said Wednesday night that the State Administration of Work Safety found the bungalows of the Kangleyuan Rest Home in central Henan province were built with steel sheets stuffed with flammable materials. The government watchdog group also found poorly designed fire exits and insufficient emergency response and electrical systems.

Chinese authorities have responded to the tragedy by ordering safety checks at nursing homes, kindergartens and other facilities around the country.

The fire broke out Monday night in the privately run home for the elderly and prompted calls for investigations from top Chinese officials, including President Xi Jinping.