Apple investigates labour violations in China

Apple Computer's investigation into claims of poor working conditions at a Chinese iPod factory found no forced labour or other serious violations. However, workers assembling the music devices were found to have worked "excessive" hours. The report found employees worked extra hours, exceeding weekly limits, 35% of the time in a seven-month period and for more than six consecutive days 25% of the time. Employees, however, were found to have been paid at least the minimum wage excluding bonuses. The Wall Street Journal reports that the minimum wage in China's Shenzhen, where the factory is thought to be located, is about Rmb800 (US$100) a month.

Apple hired an audit team to examine the plant after media reports alleged that workers at the factory were paid as little as US$50 a month and forced to work 15-hour shifts when making iPods. Apple says its supplier will now enforce a "normal" 60-hour working week. The company has hired Verite, an international consultant on workplace standards, to continue monitoring working conditions at the factory.