Quite out of the blue, Apple has put out a report detailing the working conditions it demands from its suppliers, manufacturers, and business partners, highlighting a code of conduct these companies must commit to if they want to do business.

"Apple is committed to ensuring the highest standards of social responsibility wherever our products are made. We insist that our suppliers provide safe working conditions, treat workers with dignity and respect, and use environmentally responsible manufacturing processes," the report begins.

Evidently, it's more than just a case of signing Apple's agreement, however. Cupertino insists the companies it does business with agree to allow it to perform onsite audits, approve corrective action plans and verify their implementation.

"Apple’s biggest impact comes when we empower workers and proactively address challenges. We provide train-the-trainer workshops to enable our suppliers to educate workers on their rights. At the same time, we are addressing industrywide issues through collaboration with suppliers, government agencies, NGOs, and other companies," explains Apple.

Quite what's prompted the report isn't clear, but it seems Apple's proactivity goes beyond keeping an eye on its suppliers, and aims to pre-empt any potential controversy over digital sweatshops.

AppleInsider