What was the common description of working conditions during the late 1700s and into the 1800s?

During the late 1700s and into the 1800s, the working conditions in factories and mines were characterized by long hours and poor sanitation. Workers typically endured grueling shifts that lasted twelve to sixteen hours a day, often in hazardous environments. Factories were crowded, poorly ventilated, and lacked basic safety measures, leading to dangerous situations and a high incidence of injuries and illnesses.

Sanitation was also a major issue; facilities were often dirty, and access to clean water was limited. These conditions were particularly severe in rapidly industrializing cities, where the demand for labor outpaced the safety regulations that might have otherwise improved worker welfare. The impact of these harsh conditions was profound, contributing to labor movements and social reforms aimed at improving worker rights and safety standards in the ensuing decades.