Response to case study scenario 1

I would ensure an entire product recall. As the problem is real and threatening. An incident which could potentially cause fire, severe damage or maybe death is an incident that should be avoided at all costs. Ethically you think of the possible human cost, preserving life is priceless, therefore an entire product recall is required. The size of the order and importance of the client only makes the need for safety greater. More people are at risk and the consumer trust in the client must remain. Members of the Royal Academy of Engineering aim to 'enhance the welfare, health and safety of all', this is doing the opposite, this is endangering people.

Products should be free of risk of such instances as much as is possible. A 1.5% risk of such a serious issue is not acceptable in such a large order. Like If the manager chooses to ignore the problem I would, unwillingly but absolutely, go over his head. In a matter so serious I would even wonder if this was an elaborate challenge to me, the junior, to find my worth.

In my employment as an sales assistant at a major storage company we experienced a problem a little similar to this. In the larger units (+200sqft) the company placed motion sensitive lights. These lights weren't just the standard fluorescent striplights but actual 300/500 W work lamps. Fine in short bursts, but as anyone with a spotlight lamp knows, they get hot after a short while. In some of the fitted lights the system were not working correctly, and these lamps were on permanently. I noticed this when doing my rounds of the building and informed the manager. We accessed the affected units and found that there was incredible heat being made, with the cardboard boxes and ceiling tiles nearby being extremely warm, a fire was a definite risk. We immediately called an engineer and removed all flammable objects from reach of the offending devices. They were eventually replaced with low power striplights.

I was in the lowest position at the store but it doesn't matter what your job title is, if there is a problem which you think should be acted upon, you should ensure there is action. In this case - I would insist on a full product recall.