_____ are factories that have unsafe working conditions, pay poorly, and may treat employees badly.

The term that best describes factories characterized by unsafe working conditions, poor pay, and potentially exploitative treatment of employees is "sweatshops." These establishments are often found in industries such as clothing manufacturing, where labor laws may be inadequately enforced, allowing for such detrimental practices. The focus on profit can lead to the disregard for workers' rights, health, and safety, making sweatshops notorious for their unethical operational standards.

In contrast to sweatshops, chain outlets normally refer to retail stores affiliated with larger brands offering consistent products and services, while farmer's markets are local venues where farmers sell their produce directly to consumers. Assembly lines indicate a manufacturing process where parts are assembled in sequence but do not inherently imply poor working conditions or unethical practices. Therefore, the defining characteristics of sweatshops distinctly align them with the conditions described in the question.