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Apple Accused of Toxic Exposure at Chip Plant
12 Jan
Summary
- Ex-manager sues Apple alleging toxic chemical exposure from Santa Clara facility.
- Lawsuit claims hazardous substances were mishandled and released by Apple.
- Air monitors detected VOC spikes near former employee's residence.
A federal lawsuit was filed in September 2025 against Apple, accusing the company of exposing residents to toxic chemicals from its Santa Clara chipmaking facility. The former engineering program manager claims Apple's operations at 3250 Scott Boulevard violated environmental laws by releasing hazardous substances.
Air monitors allegedly detected volatile organic compounds (VOCs) near the plaintiff's apartment, leading her to move out in October 2021 due to persistent illness. The lawsuit alleges that nearby residents experienced health issues, including asthma flare-ups and documented cases of arsenic, mercury, and industrial solvents in victims' blood and urine.
Apple stated that recent EPA inspections identified minor, quickly resolved compliance issues unrelated to environmental risk. However, the EPA's settlement with Apple in October 2025 addressed hazardous waste violations, including improper storage and labeling, and inadequate emissions control. Gjovik's lawsuit seeks to hold Apple accountable for alleged widespread risk to thousands of residents.
