14 DAY TRIAL // In addition to disclosing the identity of 156 suppliers last week, Apple will become the first technology company to join the Fair Labor Association (FLA).
Per Apple’s decision, the FLA will be permitted to investigate its suppliers and make reports on their labor practices.
Jeff Williams, Apple’s senior vice president of Operations, said “We’re extremely proud to be the first technology company admitted to the FLA.”
“Last year we performed more than 200 audits at our supplier’s facilities around the world. With the benefit of the FLA’s experience and expertise, we will continue to drive improvements for workers and provide even greater transparency into our supply chain.”
The companies that agree to participate in the program are required to uphold the FLA Workplace Code of Conduct throughout their supply chains.
These companies will have to commit to the FLA's Principles of Fair Labor and Responsible Sourcing, the FLA said.
The Association worked with the Cupertino, California Mac maker in 2011 to assess the impact of the company’s training programs, which help raise awareness of labor rights and standards among workers in its supply chain.
Apple must align its compliance program with FLA obligations within the next two years, under the terms of their agreement.
"We found that Apple takes supplier responsibility seriously and we look forward to their participation in the Fair Labor Association," said Auret van Heerden, FLA's President and CEO. "We welcome Apple's commitment to greater transparency and independent oversight, and we hope its participation will set a new standard for the electronics industry."
When it is not conducting independent assessments of participating companies' supplier facilities, the FLA strives to create and improve social responsibility programs working with civil society organizations, universities and other institutions.
The FLA also provides training and capacity building at the facility and brand level.
The Association plans to post progress reports and findings from Apple assessments in the near future. Those looking to learn more about the group are encouraged to visit www.fairlabor.org.