What ethical issue or dilemma was Bob Hopkins facing?
Bob received an order from Stan inquiring about the availability of 3x12 Doug fir rough sawn lumbers. When his partner asked him if he had received any orders for scaffold planks, he began to hesitate and felt that something was up. From the information that Mike was giving him, they had received three inquiries from Stan that had the same tally. The scaffold planks were usually stronger than the ordinary lumber and were used between the metal supports often in the construction of high storey buildings. Further, scaffolding grading was different from the ordinary grading since their strength was higher. Bob then discovered that Stan was trying to use the ordinary lumber to obtain a job that required the use of scaffolding planks. Furthermore, his boss was also convinced that he should make the order and not to worry about whom the final user of the order would be as that was not their job. What made it even complicated was that his boss told him that if they did not take the job many people would be affected. Most of his employers that do not have a college degree would be left jobless as they facing a recession. The lumber business now was not doing well, so they needed to take most of the opportunities that came their way.
Who were the stakeholders and what were their conflicting values in Bob’s decision?
The stakeholders include the employees of the White Lumber, Stan’s company, Quality Lumber and the final users of the lumber that was ordered by Stan. The final users would be affected if the Lumber failed while it was being used in place of the scaffold planks. Furthermore, the foreman that was communicating with Stan was also a major stakeholder.
What alternatives did Bob have? Analyze the consequences of each alternative.
One of the alternatives that Bob had was to refuse to make the sell the lumber to Stan. This could have certain consequences. Failing to sell the lumber to Quality Lumber would mean that their long-standing business relationship would end. This would have a negative effect on White Lumber’s business. Further, if White Lumber refused to sell the lumber to Quality Lumber, he was risking losing his job and that of his coworkers.
Bob has the option of selling the timber. This would mean he would be responsible in case accidents occur owing to the use of the lumber that he supplied. Further, this would encourage Quality Lumber to engage White Lumber in unethical business dealings. Furthermore, in case it was found out that scaffolds were not used and the case went to court he would be implicated because of his knowledge regarding the transaction and would legally be accused of conspiring to commit fraud and risk the lives of other individuals.
What should Bob do? Provide your evidence and rationale to support your solutions
Bob should not allow the selling of the lumber to Quality Lumber to take place. He should quit his job owing to the fact if he stays and most of his coworkers lose their jobs they will blame him. He has a college degree and can easily find another job. Further, he should report the matter to the concerned authorizes and ensure that they provide protection to his identity for whistle blowing.
