Apple's Foxconn factories in China under independant inspection...

An independent group has begun inspecting the Chinese factories where Apple's iPads and iPhones are assembled, amid growing criticism over claims of horrendous working conditions.

The Fair Labour Association team began the inspections yesterday morning at Foxconn City in Shenzhen, China, Apple said. The complex employs and houses hundreds of thousands of workers.

The technology giant last month disclosed a list of suppliers for its popular gadgets for the first time.

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In 2010 there was a rash of suicides at Foxconn's Shenzhen plant and managers installed nets to prevent more people from committing suicide by jumping from the roof.

A May explosion at the company's Chengdu, China, plant killed three people and injured 15. A New York Times story published January 26 reported on accidents and long hours in Foxconn factories, based on workers' accounts. Foxconn has disputed allegations of back-to-back shifts and crowded living conditions. Full story...

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