Question 1) The ethical issues observed in the video
There are multiple ethical issues observed in the video. They include:
Chuck, who is VP of Engineering at Phaust, has a brother-in-law who is the sales representative for Lutz and Lutz (L&L), a company that sells controls. Fred is initially instructed to purchase controls from L&L, though Wally informs him that the existing relationship has no bearing.
Fred is faced with having to determine whether to line the ponds – a practice legally required in the US – to reduce or avoid toxic/dangerous waste from entering the soil in the area. Even though local laws/regulations are “clearly inadequate,” this is an issue, initially.
Fred is faced with another issue on whether to purchase pipes/connectors made of stainless steel or high pressure alloy, which are comparatively safer over time. In a site visit to another plant, an operator informs Fred that investing in pipes/connectors significantly reduces the chance of a “blow out” or even “killing an operator.”
Finally, the observation by Wally that there is leaking coming from the pipes is an issue that needs to be dealt with. The reaction from Wally suggests this is potentially hazardous.
Question 2) Prioritize issues
In order the priority issues are first, to line the ponds. This is the most certain of all potential hazards. Lining the ponds is the only guaranteed method to safeguard the cleanliness of the water table, or other potential hazards to the soil. The second priority issue is the quality of the pipes/connectors. In particular, the issue to ensure that whatever prototype paint thinner and/or eventual product is manufactured, that the temperature during mixing, for example, does not approach, or exceed temperatures that may cause these devices to explode. The third priority issue is to address the leaking from the pipes/connectors. Finally, the conflict of interest issue regarding the relationship between Chuck and the brother-in-law who is a sales representative at L&L should be addressed.
In conclusion, the most important issues are the first two that are identified. They pose the most serious, if not immediate impact to public safety. Above all else, public safety is the number one priority in the context of ethical responsibilities of engineers.
Question 3A: Fred’s perspective
i) The specific ethical issues Fred faces includes: Lining the holding ponds to ensure effluent does not contaminate the soil; and to ensure that the pipes/connectors are not subject to heating with which the devices cannot safely withstand.
ii) Some things that should be considered are to advocate for the protection of the soil from the effluent. The other issue that you should consider are to make a stronger case for better quality pipes/connectors. This serves two purposes. First, it safeguards against any accident that may involve overheating. Second, it allows for testing of other solvents, that may require greater heating during mixing – a hypothesis presented by the scientist after the demonstration of Easy Strip, from the competitor.
iii) I would seek guidance first and foremost from my immediate superior. In this case it would have been Wally, Fred’s supervisor. If this was neglected, then I would go up the chain of command. Ultimately, my responsibility is to public safety. If ignored within my company, I would go to the public/state board that governs engineering in the state where I am employed and/or performing the work.
Question 3B: Wally’s perspective
i) Wally’s specific ethical issues are that he is enforcing budget cuts and perhaps a poorer job completed to save on costs. This is compounded by the fact that he gets angry at Fred for not first informing him of Fred’s concerns around the lining of the collection ponds. Wally is also ethically responsible for not addressing the conflict of interest issue between Chuck and his brother-in-law.
ii) Wally’s motivation for having one rule is to ensure he can maintain control over situations. As long as he hears of an issue first from a subordinate he can determine the best course of action relative to protecting his own interests.
Iii) I respect Wally’s “One Rule” in regards to solidarity with your supervisor. If there is an issue that is of a nature that is beyond Wally’s control, that should not be at the discretion of a subordinate, such as Fred, to determine. If, however, an issue is disregarded by Wally, and known to Fred, then he is in a proper position to pursue other channels.
iv) If I were Wally, I would focus less on the bottom line and more on the quality of work. As noted in the scene in Chuck’s office, there are innumerable ways to re-work budgets. Knowing of safety concerns, whether to the factory, or to the environment, Wally should exercise better judgment in relation to decision-making.
Question 3C: Responsibility perspective
i) To improve the company culture, I would include in the mission and vision of the company the role of integrity in the company. In the long run respectability is the most important aspect of a company. Following the rules, and living up to high standards starts at the top and needs to be emulated by those in charge. This has a trickle-down effect and creates a culture of awareness and pride in the work performed by the company. In relation to Phaust, I would ensure that policies were in place, and that adequate training was given to ensure that all employees know of the important of compliance to company policies, and the consequences when they are not followed.
ii) Involvement in such steps would require the insight and agreement of human resources. I would also look to other companies of high regard to measure my own company’s policies. If it is a requirement to do other site checks in the construction of a plant, as was the case in the video, then looking at other companies to garner a sense of ‘best practice’ should also be followed.
iii) In regards to when I would communicate policies to my employees, I would ensure that this was done when an employee joined the company. I would also provide a memo when policies changed, or even better, invite the input of employees for change, where relevant and feasible. In regards to informing clients, I would inform them of company policies during tendering or when a contract is signed. Policies would also be clearly identifiable and accessible on the company’s website. This would serve the dual purpose of informing clients and the public of the policies that govern my company.
