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  • February 1990 (Revised March 1990)
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Quantum Semiconductor, Inc.

By: Janice H. Hammond and Roy D. Shapiro
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:30
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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

Safety; Prejudice and Bias; Law; Equality and Inequality; Cost; Production; Ethics; Health; Gender; Semiconductor Industry

Citation

Hammond, Janice H., and Roy D. Shapiro. "Quantum Semiconductor, Inc." Harvard Business School Case 690-059, February 1990. (Revised March 1990.)
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About The Authors

Janice H. Hammond

Technology and Operations Management
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Roy D. Shapiro

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    • January 2022
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    FLEXE, Inc.: Pioneering On-Demand Warehousing & Fulfillment

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    Precision Paint Co.

    By: Iavor I. Bojinov, Chiara Farronato, Janice H. Hammond, Michael Parzen and Paul Hamilton
    • September 2019 (Revised December 2022)
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    African American Inequality in the United States

    By: Janice H. Hammond, A. Kamau Massey and Mayra G. Garza
More from the Authors
  • FLEXE, Inc.: Pioneering On-Demand Warehousing & Fulfillment By: Janice H. Hammond and James Barnett
  • Precision Paint Co. By: Iavor I. Bojinov, Chiara Farronato, Janice H. Hammond, Michael Parzen and Paul Hamilton
  • African American Inequality in the United States By: Janice H. Hammond, A. Kamau Massey and Mayra G. Garza
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