The average working conditions in industrial factories like the Lowell Textile Mills were generally poor and characterized by long hours, low wages, and harsh conditions. Workers, who were often women and children, typically faced long workdays that could extend up to 12-14 hours. Safety standards were minimal, and the work environment could be noisy, dusty, and hazardous. While there were some efforts to create a more regulated environment in certain mills, overall, many factories were notorious for exploitation and poor labor practices. Therefore, the correct response would be:
Varied, with some factories offering decent conditions while others were notorious for exploitation.