another reason why not to buy an iPod
disclosure: i just bought my sister a new iPod…
it's not surprising, but probably will not be accepted well by Apple's hard core users, who are probably also tree-huggers, dolphin saving, tofu eating, save the planet, fight the corporate type people.
i think i'll stop buying iPods, but i doubt any of the other MP3 players are manufactures by $25 an hour with medical benefits employees.
Apple Investigates Allegations Of Poor Work Conditions in China
June 16, 2006 7:20 a.m.
SHANGHAI, China — Apple Computer Inc. is investigating claims of poor working conditions at a Chinese iPod factory, the company said Friday, vowing not to tolerate any labor violations.
The Cupertino, Calif.-based company was responding to a report by a British newspaper, the Mail on Sunday, that alleged workers at an unnamed iPod factory were paid as little as £27 (US$50) a month to work 15-hour shifts making the music players.
"Apple is committed to ensuring that working conditions in our supply chain are safe, workers are treated with respect and dignity, and manufacturing processes are environmentally responsible," Apple said in a written statement from spokesman Steve Dowling.
"We are currently investigating the allegations regarding working conditions in the iPod manufacturing plant in China. We do not tolerate any violations of our supplier code of conduct," it said.
Apple's iconic iPod players are made abroad, mainly in China. The company has sold more than 50 million of the devices since its debut in 2001.
Apple adopted a code of conduct for its suppliers last November, saying it was modeled after the Electronic Industry Code of Conduct and other labor standards. It bans child labor and sets a maximum of 60-hour work weeks, including overtime. The provisions also require suppliers to comply with applicable laws on minimum wages and to keep worker dormitories clean and safe.
Copyright © 2006 Associated Press
