Foxconn improves worker conditions

Foxconn (also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry; 2317.TPE), a major manufacturer of components for Apple (AAPL.NYSE) and other consumer electronics companies, has improved safety conditions and cut working hours following reports of harsh labor conditions at its China factories, The Guardian reported, citing an announcement by independent audit group the Fair Labor Association. The FLA said Foxconn had completed all 195 action items that were due at the time of the report, including introducing more breaks and better maintenance of safety equipment, and finished another 89 actions ahead of schedule. Another 76 actions are due during the next year, including such challenging tasks as reducing working hours to 40 per week plus an average of nine hours of overtime. The FLA had found at least 50 violations of regulations at Foxconn plants in Chengdu, Guanlan and Longhua in its checks in February and March.