Abstract
Quantum is faced with a difficult ethical dilemma--industry studies provide evidence that chemicals used in semiconductor manufacturing may cause women working in fabrication cleanrooms to suffer a higher likelihood of spontaneous abortions. The possibility of other reproductive health risks exist also. Barring all women of child-bearing age from fabrication areas may be viewed as sex discrimination and cause legal ramifications. Full automation is too costly for this small company. What should they do?
Keywords: Gender Characteristics;
Ethics;
Safety;
Health;
Law;
Prejudice and Bias;
Equality and Inequality;
Cost;
Production;
Semiconductor Industry;
Citation:
Hammond, Janice H., and Roy D. Shapiro. "Quantum Semiconductor, Inc." Harvard Business School Case 690-059, March 1990. (Revised from original February 1990 version.)