Which of the following best characterizes the working conditions in factories during the Industrial Revolution?

The working conditions in factories during the Industrial Revolution are best characterized by long hours with little regard for safety. Factories operated under a profit-driven model that prioritized production output over the well-being of workers. Consequently, employees often faced excessively long workdays, sometimes exceeding 12 hours, in unsafe environments. This lack of safety was evident in the machinery, which was poorly maintained and often lacked safeguards, leading to a high incidence of accidents and injuries.

The emphasis on maximizing productivity led to the exploitation of labor, including that of women and children, who were frequently subjected to grueling shifts for minimal pay. Health hazards from poor ventilation, noise, and hazardous materials further exacerbated the perilous working conditions. Overall, the nature of factory work during this period was characterized by the struggle for better conditions as laborers advocated for reforms and regulations to improve their situations. This understanding of the harsh realities faced by workers sheds light on the significant social and labor reforms that emerged following the Industrial Revolution, aimed at addressing these very issues.