Environmental organizations China Labor Watch and Green America called on Apple to "stop unnecessary exposure of workers at Chinese manufacturing plants to toxic chemicals that cause very serious illnesses."
China Labor Watch told the Guardian, “Along with Green America, we demand that Apple take responsibility and not uses chemicals such as solvents n-hexane and the carcinogen benzene, which is known to cause leukemia to the workers."
Apple's suppliers use the solvents and benzene because it dries three times faster than traditional solvents, allowing workers to clean its glass faster screen. Excessive exposure to n-hexane can cause nerve damage, even paralysis, according to doctors
The Guardian has managed to have a statement from Apple about the accusations accused by the two environmental groups.
"Over the last decade, Apple has been trying to remove toxic substances such as lead, mercury, brominated flame retardants and PVC from its products, which is very safe for both workers and consumers. We will require our suppliers worldwide to adhere to its safety standards Osha, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. ”
