Working conditions in factories in China where Apple assembles its products have been criticized numerous times. The excessive load of working hours for the personnel of the factories has reached the media and little by little it has been remedied. The working conditions are joined by the use of chemicals that can be harmful for health as is the case of benzene and n-hexane. These chemicals are potentially dangerous and can be carcinogenic. Under pressure from the authorities, the company was forced to carry out an investigation in the plants of the use of these chemicals and has decided to withdraw them.
Apple's vice president of environmental initiatives, Lisa Jackson has cited the following in this regard:
We are doing everything we can to end chemical exposures to address all concerns. We believe that it is very important to show leadership and really look to the future, trying to use chemicals that are more environmentally friendly and people friendly.
Benzene and n-hexane are used in solvents and component cleaners of the iPhone and iPad throughout the assembly process of the devices. For four months that the investigation by Apple in the 22 existing plants in China, it has not been proven that benzene and n-hexane have endangered the health of the 500.000 employees who work there. Only in 4 plants have traces of the dangerous chemicals been found, but at negligible levels to affect health.
Apple's commitment to being a sensitive company that cares about the environment has led to the decision to completely withdraw the use of the two chemicals in the assembly plants of its products and accessories, in addition to keeping a detailed control to see if they are present even if they are not on the list of used products.
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