COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING COEB422: ENGINEERS IN SOCIETY

SECTION: 02 GROUP NAME: NTT GROUP MEMBERS:

MOHAMAD FARHAN BIN MOHAMAD SABRI AHMAD SOBRI BIN MOHAMAD AWANG UMAR BIN ADNAN MUHAMAD YUSRI MAULA ABD AZIZ AMINUL HUSNI BIN SHAMSULKAHAR MUHAMAD FIQRI BIN ABU BAKAR EP085379 EE085342 EP085346 EE085385 EE085344 EE085384

SUBMISSION DATE: 29TH JULY 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgement Introduction Proposed Question Objectives General Objectives Specified Objectives Literature Review Methodology Case Studies Case Studies for Electronics Products Case Studies for Pharmaceutical Products Case Studies for Automotive Products Case Studies for Household Products Case Studies for Food And Beverages Products Case Studies for Toys Products Survey Survey Expectations Results Analysis Interview Sessions Interview Session Analysis Recommendation Conclusion Appendix References Survey Sample Minutes Meetings Interview Voice Recording (CD)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, we would like to express our utmost gratitude Allah S.W.T for giving us the strength and courage to get us through obstacles in life. Without His blessing, we would never manage to complete this project. Secondly, we want to thank our lecturer for Engineer in Society subject, Prof. Ir. Dr. Norashidah Md. Din, for her guidance, assistance and valuable advices since the beginning of this project. She had contributed in so many ways when we were doing this group project. We are in debt to her for her assistance to make sure our goals of this project are met. We would also like to thank Kementerian Perdagangan Dalam Negeri, Koperasi dan Kepenggunaan (KPDNKK) for responding our email regarding banned toys in Malaysia. They gave us the information and facts that we needed and we really appreciate their cooperation. A heap of thanks to Dr. Ungku Anisa binti Ungku Amirulddin Al Amin and Dr. Miszaina binti Osman for agreeing to have an interview session and get informations and their thoughts on this project. Our special thanks goes to our parents, siblings and friends for the support and motivations that they provided to us during the commencement of this group project. We do not think we will succeed in completing this report with their morale support. Last but not least, we want to thank the entire group member for giving the best cooperation and they were so dedicated in completing this project. Thank you to everyone who had been directly and indirectly involved with the completion of this group project. Thank you all.

INTRODUCTION
A defective product is any product that causes injury to a person due to faulty labeling, a design defect or defective manufacturing. Generally the law that governs defective products is referred to as "Product liability." This area of law refers to the responsibility held by the manufacturer, designer, distributor, or retailer of any consumer product to ensure that it does not cause harm to the consumer. There are three types of defect, Design defects, Manufacturer defects, and Marketing defects. This project discusses products liability and explores some of the ways it relates to engineers. Products liability is an outgrowth of shortcomings in both contract law and negligence law. Product liability is applicable to sellers of defective products to consumers. However, the privacy requirement of contract law has been eliminated "Sellers" include anyone in the chain that creates the product or places it in the hands of the consumer, and the injured party can be anyone injured by the product, not just the consumer but also to whom the product was sold. Also, in the original formulation by the California and New Jersey courts, product liability was based on "strict liability," thereby eliminating any requirement that the injured party prove negligence. Recent confusion about the legal standards for products liability stems from the addition of the requirement that the defective condition of the product be "unreasonably dangerous." A product may be defective due to an error during its manufacture which causes it to be different from what was intended. Or, a product may be defective because an engineer designed it improperly, and it is produced as intended. Or, a product maybe defective due to a failure to warn the user about dangers associated with its use. When there are safety concerns, what is the engineer's responsibility before the launch decision is made? After the launch decision is made, but before the actual launch, what duty does the engineer have? If the decision doesn't go the engineer's way, should they complain to upper management? Or should they bring the problem to the attention of the press? After the accident has occurred, what are the duties and responsibilities of the engineers? If the launch was successful, but the post mortem showed that the product had failed and an accident had very nearly occurred, what would be the engineer's responsibility? Even if an engineer moves into management, should he separate engineering from management decisions? Last but not least, what consumer should do if they become one of the victims? These types of questions will be the subject of this project and we will show several past cases that have this problem.

PROPOSED QUESTION

Question 1 Should a company reveal/replace defective products even if customers wont recognize the defect? Do a survey and discuss this statement based on what are the ethical actions that need to be carried out by a company that faces with this dilemma. Consider the responsibilities of engineers in finding product that have defects before the product being sold, after the product being sold and when the flaw becomes apparent after being sold. Provide examples of case studies.

OBJECTIVES

LITERATURE REVIEW
Code of Ethics Primarily, a code of ethics provides a framework for ethical judgment for a professional. The key word here is "framework." No code can be totally comprehensive and cover all possible ethical situations that a professional engineer is likely to encounter. Rather, codes serve as a starting point for ethical decision making. A code can also express the commitment to ethical conduct shared by members of a profession. It is important to note that ethical codes do not establish new ethical principles. They simply reiterate principles and standards that are already accepted as responsible engineering practice. A code expresses these principles in a coherent, comprehensive, and accessible manner. Finally, a code defines the roles and responsibilities of professionals. It is important also to look at what a code of ethics is not. It is not a recipe for ethical behavior; as previously stated, it is only a framework for arriving at good ethical choices. A code of ethics is never a substitute for sound judgment. A code of ethics is not a legal document. One cant be arrested for violating its provisions, although expulsion from the professional society might result from code violations. With the current state of engineering societies, expulsion from an engineering society generally will not result in an inability to practice engineering, so there are not necessarily any direct consequences of violating engineering ethical codes. Finally, a code of ethics doesnt create new moral or ethical principles. These principles are well established in society, and foundations of our ethical and moral principles go back many centuries. Rather, a code of ethics spells out the ways in which moral and ethical principles apply to professional practice. Put another way, a code helps the engineer to apply moral principles to the unique situations encountered in professional practice. How does a code of ethics achieve these goals? First, a code of ethics helps create an environment within a profession where ethical behavior is the norm. It also serves as a guide or reminder of how to act in specific situations. A code of ethics can also be used to bolster an individuals position with regard to a certain activity: The code provides a little backup for an individual who is being pressured by a superior to behave unethically. A code of ethics can also bolster the individuals position by indicating that there is a collective sense of correct behavior; there is strength in numbers. Finally, a code of ethics can indicate to others that the profession is seriously concerned about responsible, professional conduct. A code of ethics, however, should not be used as "window dressing," an attempt by an organization to appear to be committed to ethical behavior when it really is not.

Consumer Rights Consumers had little protection in the world marketplace before the 1950s. On March 15, 1962, US President John F. Kennedy put forth the "Consumer Bill of Rights" to help consumers understand their rights and responsibilities. In 1985, eight basic consumer rights were adopted by the United Nations' Assembly, which resulted in consumers having stronger consumer protection policies worldwide. March 15 is now declared as World Consumer Rights Day. The right to satisfaction of basic needs - To have access to basic, essential goods and services: adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, public utilities, water and sanitation. The right to safety - To be protected against products, production processes and services that are hazardous to health or life. The right to be informed - To be given the facts needed to make an informed choice, and to be protected against dishonest or misleading advertising and labelling. The right to choose - To be able to select from a range of products and services, offered at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality. The right to be heard - To have consumer interests represented in the making and execution of government policy, and in the development of products and services. The right to redress - To receive a fair settlement of just claims, including compensation for misrepresentation, shoddy goods or unsatisfactory services. The right to consumer education - To acquire knowledge and skills needed to make informed, confident choices about goods and services, while being aware of basic consumer rights and responsibilities and how to act on them. The right to a healthy environment -To live and work in an environment that is nonthreatening to the well-being of present and future generations.

Consumer Protection Consumer protection is a group of laws and organizations designed to ensure the rights of consumers as well as fair trade competition and the free flow of truthful information in the marketplace. The laws are designed to prevent businesses that engage in fraud or specified unfair practices from gaining an advantage over competitors; they may also provide additional protection for the weak and those unable to take care of themselves. Consumer protection laws are a form of government regulation, which aim to protect the rights of consumers. For example, a government may require businesses to disclose detailed information about productsparticularly in areas where safety or public health is an issue, such as food. Consumer protection is linked to the idea of "consumer rights" (that consumers have various rights as consumers), and to the formation of consumer organizations, which help consumers make better choices in the marketplace and get help with consumer complaints. Consumer protection law or consumer law is considered an area of law that regulates private law relationships between individual consumers and the businesses that sell those goods and services. Consumer protection covers a wide range of topics, including but not necessarily limited to product liability, privacy rights, unfair business practices, fraud, misrepresentation, and other consumer/business interactions. It's a way of preventing fraud and scams from occ service and sales contracts, bill collector regulation, pricing, utility turnoffs, consolidation, personal loans that may lead to bankruptcy. The Malaysia's Consumer Protection Act 1999 (CPA) is an act which came into effect 1st October 1999. It is a piece of legislation enacted with the main objective to provide greater protection for consumers. The provisions of this act cover areas not covered by other existing laws. This act provides simple, inexpensive redressal to the consumer's grievances and relief of a specific nature. Under this act, an aggrieved consumer may refer any dispute or claim of less than RM10,000 to the established Consumer Redressal Tribunal.

METHODOLOGY
Methodology is a method in achieving an objectives of a scientific research, or any paper works. Always mistakenly treat as a synonym of method, or sets of methods, the true meaning methodology is actually more beyond that, which is the design process of carrying out research and development of procedure, to achieve the research objectives using a detailed plan. Methodology can be classes into two parts, qualitative and quantitative analysis. Quantitative analysis are more towards collection of data and numbers, related to topics. While qualitative analysis are more about seeking for information that will reflects a content of an event, or perspectives of an individual, towards the topic. Examples of qualitative analysis is interview sessions and case studies. Discussion Working in a group, discussion is important in making a good and synchronised results. Discussion are being organised weekly with all group members involved. Among the early topics during the discussion session the question requirements, and the surveys questions. Hypothesis are being discussed before surveys being distributed. Minute meeting are noted during the discussion session, as required in the question descriptions. Literature Review Literature review on the topic are like get to know the topic more deep. Literature review about the defects, recall procedures, and related acts and laws that guards the consumer's right gives us more detailed information and helps us to relate with our course. Case Studies Case studies also being review as a bottom line for our project. With case studies, the reaction from the manufacturer whenever facing dilemma related to product defects are noted. How media and consumers responds to this problem gives us an idea how important the product defects could affect the manufacturing company. Six categories of case studies with various product defects cases from past ten years are carefully studied. Case study are also being included in the survey form.

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Survey Survey form are being distributed to our target group, which is the students of University of Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) from various engineering courses. As a prospective future engineer, this survey requires respondents to answer 12 questions from three sections, Consumerism, Engineering Ethics, and Case studies. Survey are performed on online basis, using google drive survey form as medium. Online surveys are more convenient compared to old fashion paper form, and can provide a fast numerical data analysis. The sample of survey questions are attached in the appendix. Survey Analysis After the 50 survey responds has been collected, each data collected are being tabulated and present in graphical form. Each questions are being discussed in details based on the numerical data collected. Analysis are the core of our research to gain the perspectives from future engineers from UNITEN about the topic. Interview Session A part from surveys, interview sessions with lecturers from UNITEN are another way in gaining responds and opinion about the topic. The lecturers involved for our interview session are the Head of Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Dr. Ungku Anisa binti Ungku Amirulddin Al Amin, and Deputy Dean of COE, Academic And Quality Assurance Manager, Dr. Miszainabinti Osman. Eight questions asked are open ended based question.

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CASE STUDIES FOR ELECTRONICS PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Apple Issues "Fire-Risk" Recall For Old iPod Nanos: If You Can Find Yours, You Get A New Model, Free. SOURCE: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2062147/Apple-iPod-Nano-recall-earliestmodel-If-new-free.html

Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Inc Apple CEO Steve Jobs unveils the first-generation iPod Nano: Now Apple says models released six years ago may have a battery malfunction - and is offering free, new replacements to owners. It's one of the oddest product recalls in some time. Apple has warned that the batteries on the iPod Nano can catch fire - but only on the very oldest models. One might imagine that a Nano that has stood the test of time since 2005-2006 when the first generation of the slim devices was on sale would be safe - but Apple thinks not. The defect discovered in the batteries appears to get worse over time. So much so, in fact, that the company is offering a replacement, new iPod Nano - a serious technological upgrade which adds a touchscreen, an FM radio and a pedometer to the rather basic Nano that late Apple CEO Steve Jobs launched six years ago. All you have to do is remember where you put your six-year-old MP3 player.

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It's not clear what incident sparked the current recall. There have been unconfirmed and highly isolated reports of batteries overheating around the world, including incidents where overheating batteries set fire to users' clothes. But it's not exactly an epidemic. In a statement, the company said that, "Apple has determined that, in very rare cases, the battery in the iPod nano (1st generation) may overheat and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod Nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006." This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. While the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood increases as the battery ages. Apple recommends that you stop using your iPod Nano (1st gen) and follow the process noted below to order a replacement unit, free of charge. Apple says serial numbers will be checked to ensure the units are affected - you can check via their website. Replacements will be issued within six weeks.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Apple Inc. YEAR OF RECALL: 2011 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: First generation of iPod Nano (2005 and 2006) DESCRIPTIONS: Apple determined the battery in the iPod nano (1st generation) may experience overheating problem and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006. This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. Although the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood of the safety hazard to happen increases as the battery ages. ACTION TAKEN: Apple issued a statement where they recommended that customers to stop using their iPod nano (1st generation). Customers then can follow the process of product replacement, free of charge, as stated in their website. Serial numbers of the iPod will be checked by Apple to ensure that only affected models are replaced.

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CASE 2: Some Acer Aspire Laptops Recalled Due to Overheating SOURCE:http://news.softpedia.com/news/Acer-Aspire-Laptops-Recalled-Due-to-Overheating124011.shtml

Over the years, there have been a series of headlines regarding laptops from various system vendors that had been recalled due to various reasons, most of which had to do with overheating of a certain hardware component. It appears that, although the manufacturing technology has evolved significantly, enabling low-power, more compact components, these overheating issues continue to make themselves noticed in some of the latest laptops on the market. Such is the case with a couple of Aspire models, from one of the world's leading vendors of laptops, Acer, which has just issued a recall for said machines.

Acer AS3410 According to a dedicated webpage on the company's custom-care website, there are a couple of Aspire models that may overheat under specific conditions. The list of affected units includes the AS3410, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG models, which were manufactured prior to September 15, 2009. Apparently, in these units, the microphone cable may overheat when extreme pressure is applied repeatedly to the left palm rest. The units, Acer informs, could become deformed and the system may malfunction, which is why users are advised to check if their laptops are among the listed models and take advantage of the recall program. Acer has announced that customers who will notice the aforementioned issues, or will check to see if their models are listed on this website, will be able to take advantage of said recall program. The company has promised to proactively replace the microphone and the affected units, consequently eliminating overheating.

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The listed models are part of Acer's line of Timeline 13.3-inch CULV-based ultraportable laptops, providing end-user with an alternative to other CULV-based ultra-thin laptops currently available on the market. These systems are designed to adopt a thin and light form factor, with the manufacturer being forced to cramp everything into a thinner chassis.

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: ACER YEAR OF RECALL: 2009 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: AS3410, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG

DESCRIPTIONS: According to a dedicated webpage on the company's custom-care website, there are a couple of Aspire models that may overheat under specific conditions. The list of affected units includes the AS3410, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG models, which were manufactured prior to September 15, 2009. Apparently, in these units, the microphone cable may overheat when significant pressure is applied repeatedly to the left palm rest. The units, as Acer informed, could become deformed and the system may became malfunction, which is why users are advised to check if their laptops are among the listed models and take advantage of the recall program. ACTION TAKEN: Acer has announced that customers who will notice the aforementioned issues, or will check to see if their models are listed on this website, will be able to take advantage of the recall program. The company has promised to replace the microphone and the affected units, consequently eliminating the overheating issue.

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CASE STUDIES FOR PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Excedrin Recall 2012 and Five Other Worse Drug Recalls in FDA History SOURCE: http://www.ibtimes.com/excedrin-recall-2012-5-other-worse-drug-recalls-fda-history393656

Excedrin Tablets Novartis Consumer Health Inc. on Sunday, voluntarily recalled Excedrin and NoDoz products in the United States because they may contain some stray tablets, capsules caplets from other Novartis products. There may also be some broken or chipped tablets inside the packages. The company said the recall was done as a precautionary measure following complaints from consumer about broken or chipped pills and inconsistent bottle packaging line clearance practices. There have been no related adverse events reported with the issues leading to the recall, Novartis, a Switzerland-based company, noted in a statement on its Web site. U.S. consumers are also asked to either destroy or return unused product identified in the recall to Novartis Consumer Health Inc. Those products are Excedrin and NoDoz products with expiry dates of Dec. 20, 2014 or earlier as well as Bufferin and Gas-X Prevention products with expiry dates of Dec. 20, 2013 or earlier. The company has since suspended operations and shipment from its Lincoln, Neb., facility in order to make improvements. The recall and improvement efforts are estimated at $120 million.

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We are committed to a single quality standard for the entire Novartis Group and we are making the necessary investments and committing the right resources to ensure these are implemented across our entire network, said Joseph Jimenez, CEO of Novartis. The high quality of our products and operations has been critical to building the Novartis reputation over the past 15 years. We are committed to ensuring the highest standard for patients who rely on our products and medicines.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Novartis Consumer Health Inc. YEAR OF RECALL: 2012 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Excedrin and Nodoz

DESCRIPTIONS: Two of the companys products were recalled from shelves because the company found out that their product called Excedrin and NoDoz, particularly in the United States may contain tablets and capsules from their other line of products. ACTION TAKEN: Novartis Consumer Health Inc. voluntarily recalled Excedrin and NoDoz products in the United States because they may contain some stray tablets, capsules caplets from other Novartis products. The company made a statement that the recall was done as a precautionary measure following complaints from consumer about broken or chipped pills and inconsistent bottle packaging line clearance practices. The company has since suspended operations and shipment from its Lincoln, Neb., facility in order to make improvements. The recall and improvement efforts are estimated at $120 million.

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CASE 2: Meridia Recalled - Maker Pulls the Diet Drug Pill Due to FDA Concerns of Increased Risk of Heart Attack & Stroke SOURCE: http://www.drugrecalls.com/meridia.html

Meridia Tablet By Abbott Laboratories Based on pressure from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Abbott Laboratories, manufacturer of Meridia (sibutramine), has decided to recall the drug in the United States, Canada, and Australia effective immediately. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine last month established that the long-term effects of sibutramine treatment on the rates of cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death among subjects at high cardiovascular risk have not been established. According to the study, "10,744 overweight or obese subjects, 55 years of age or older, with preexisting cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or both, were enrolled to assess the cardiovascular consequences of weight management with and without sibutramine in subjects at high risk for cardiovascular events. " Results stated that Meridia increases the risk of heart attack and stroke by 11%, while doing little to assist with weight loss. The study also tied Meridia to 16 percent more major cardiovascular side effects. The FDA has linked 17 deaths to Meridia thus far, with 70% being women with an average age of 43.

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Global sales of the drug in the first nine months of this year were $80 million, including $20 million in the U.S.According to Forbes, the FDA also announced today that it found sibutramine in a "100% herbal" dietary supplement called Slimming Beauty, sold by Beautiful Health, Inc. The supplement was distributed at the 40th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade in Chicago, on Sept. 12, 2010 and caused reports of insomnia, vomiting, and spiking blood pressure. An FDA advisory panel voted to decide whether to keep the diet drug Merdia on the market following reports and studies linking the drug to cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke. The FDA panel vote was split - eight members called for withdrawal, six for restricted sales and a "black box" warning, and two for the warning plus close monitoring of patients. The FDA's own monitoring linked 14 deaths to the use of Meridia. Patients who died were 43 years old, on average, and 71% were women. Following a November 2010 clinical trial paid for by its manufacturer, Abbott Laboratories, the popular diet drug Meridia (Sibutramine), has come under a great deal of scrutiny by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Meridia, which was first approved by the FDA in 1997, has been found to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke by 11%, while doing little to assist with weight loss. According to the New York Times, three of the authors of the study whom are Abbott employees concluded that the trial results did little more than show that patients with heart problems should not be prescribed Meridia-a restriction already included in Meridia's label.In an additional study on Meridia published in the New England Journal of Medicine in September 2010, the risk of a stroke, heart attack, cardiac arrest or cardiac death was 16% higher among people taking Meridia, compared with those taking a placebo. All of the 9,804 overweight or obese study participants had a history of cardiovascular disease. New England Journal of Medicine's editor, Dr. Gregory D. Curfman wrote an editorial following the trial's initial analysis, stating that the study proved that Meridia should be removed from the market. Regardless, Abbott Laboratories maintains that "the risks of Meridia are outweighed by its benefits and that new data on its cardiovascular safety doesn't change the fact that it's safe for patients when used strictly according to its label." With added pressure to remain thin, many men and women resort to diet drugs which promise a lean figure. While some dietary supplements have proved to be safe and effective, the majority tend to cause a great deal of dangerous side effects such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Novartis Consumer Health Inc. YEAR OF RECALL: 2010 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Meridia (sibutramine) DESCRIPTIONS: A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine established that the longterm effects of sibutramine treatment on the rates of cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death among subjects at high cardiovascular risk have not been established. Results stated that Meridia increases the risk of heart attack and stroke by 11%, while doing little to assist with weight loss. The study also tied Meridia to 16 percent more major cardiovascular side effects. The FDA has linked 17 deaths to Meridia thus far, with 70% being women with an average age of 43. The FDA's own monitoring linked 14 deaths to the use of Meridia. ACTION TAKEN: Abbott Laboratories agreed to voluntarily withdraw its obesity drug Meridia (sibutramine) from the United States market because of clinical trial data indicating an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Physicians were advised by FDA to stop prescribing Meridia to their patients and patients should stop consuming it.

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CASE STUDIES FOR AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Toyota Recalls 22,000 Vehicles Over Tire Monitors

SOURCE: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/07/us-toyota-recall-idUSTRE7262WS20110307

(Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp on Saturday recalled about 22,000 sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks because of tire-deflation monitoring systems that may fail, regulators said. Toyota Sequoia, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tacoma and Tundra vehicles from model years 2008-2011 may have tire deflation monitoring systems that fail to warn drivers, raising the risk of a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a report.

Toyota FJ Cruiser The vehicles affected left their assembly plants with working monitoring systems, but when accessory wheels were installed, the systems were not recalibrated and now lights to warn drivers of low tire pressure may fail, the report said. The models affected will be repaired at Toyota dealerships at no cost, Toyota Motor Sales, the automaker's U.S. sales branch, told the NHTSA. Toyota has been plagued by a series of recalls since late 2009 that now total 19 million vehicles worldwide. Two weeks ago, the automaker recalled 2.2 million vehicles for a defect that may cause gas pedals to stick, widening one of the recalls from late 2009.The recalls have cut into Toyota sales, particularly in the United States, where most of the recalls have taken place.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Toyota YEAR OF RECALL: 2009 - 2011 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Sport Utility Vehicle, Pickup Trucks, Toyota Sequoia, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Tacoma and Tundra.

DESCRIPTIONS: Toyota discovered that there was a possible incursion of an incorrect or out-of-place front driver's side floor mat into the foot pedal well, which can cause pedal entrapment in 2009 and 2010. Toyota also discovered a defect that was identified as a possible mechanical sticking of the accelerator pedal causing unintended acceleration, referred to as Sticking Accelerator Pedal. In 2011, there is a problem with Toyotas tire-deflation monitoring systems. ACTION TAKEN: From the year 2009 to 2011 Toyota has been involved in few cases of recalled in the U.S. The first recall on 2nd November 2009 was to correct a possible incursion of an incorrect or outof-place front driver's side floor mat into the foot pedal well, which can cause pedal entrapment. Then on 21 January 2010 Toyota once again recall its model after some crashes were shown not to have been caused by floor mat incursion. This latter defect was identified as a possible mechanical sticking of the accelerator pedal causing unintended acceleration, referred to as Sticking Accelerator Pedal by Toyota. As of 28 January 2010, Toyota had recalls of approximately 5.2 million vehicles for the pedal entrapment/floor mat problem, additional 2.3 million vehicles for the accelerator pedal problem and 1.7 million vehicles who suffers from both. Toyota widened the recall to include 1.8 million vehicles in Europe and 75,000 in China. The worldwide total number of cars recalled by Toyota stood at 9 million. On 2/7/2011, Toyota had recalled 22,000 of its sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks because of tire-deflation monitoring systems that may fail. The vehicles affected left their assembly plants with working monitoring systems, but when accessory wheels were installed, the systems were not recalibrated and now lights to warn drivers of low tire pressure may fail.

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CASE 2: Honda recalls nearly 700,000 vehicles worldwide

SOURCE: http://www.arabnews.com/node/368525

Honda Freed

TOKYO Honda is recalling nearly 700,000 Fit, Freed and City compact cars around the world for a defective spring part that may cause the engine to stall.No accidents have been reported related to the problem, but at least 72 complaints were filed in Japan, and 29 abroad, Honda Motor Co. spokesman Tomohiro Okada said Thursday. Recalled are 167,000 vehicles in Japan, 156,000 in China, and 233,000 in the rest of Asia, Tokyo-based Honda said. About 122,000 cars are being recalled in North America. The spring was placed improperly in a small box inside the engine, so that, in some cases, the problem could cause the engine to stall, Okada said.

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Honda YEAR OF RECALL: 2011 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Honda Fit, Freed and City Compact Cars DESCRIPTIONS: A defect regarding the spring was found, the springs, which are compressed by rocker arms in normal engine use, may bend or break over time resulting in abnormal engine noise and in worst case cause stalling and problem starting. The lost motion springs could also potentially cause engine damage or stalling. ACTION TAKEN: Honda had recall 14,640 of its 2009 and 2010 Fit subcompact cars to replace lost motion springs. The Canadian-sold vehicles are among nearly 700,000 Fit, Freed and City compact cars Honda is recalling around the world for the same reason. There have been no reported accidents, injuries or vehicle crashes related to this issue. Honda said at least 72 complaints were filed in Japan, and 29 abroad. Recalled are 167,000 vehicles in Japan, 156,000 in China, 233,000 in the rest of Asia and about 122,000 in North America.

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CASE 3.1: Proton Savvy rear wheel bearing recall SOURCE: http://paultan.org/2008/03/31/proton-savvy-rear-wheel-bearing-recall/

Proton Savvy's Bearing Proton is recalling a total of 34,000 Proton Savvys due to potential water entry into the rear wheelbearing which could lead to a malfunction of the affected components. Proton say this recall is purely a precautionary measure for the safety of its customers.The safety and satisfaction of our customers is a primary concern. As a precautionary measure, we are recalling all Savvys for inspection and repair. We do apologise to all the Savvy owners for any inconvenience, said Proton managing director Dato Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir. Customers should immediately contact the nearest Proton Edar or EON service branch for an appointment to have their cars inspected, or call Proton i-Care at 1-300-88-0888.

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CASE 3.2: Proton Recalls Nearly 3,000 Waja Cars For Wheel Rim Defect SOURCE: http://mambau.blogdrive.com/archive/341.html

Proton Waja KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 (AFP) - National carmaker Proton announced Wednesday a recall of 2,996 of its 1.6 litre Waja models due to defects in their aluminum alloy wheel rims. The alloy rims have been found to be technically defective, Proton's joint chief operating officer Kisai Rahmat said, adding that the cars were sold from June 2004 to January this year."During our accelerated testing of this particular component, the alloy wheels encountered some difficulties and failed the test," chairman Mohamad Azlan Hashim said, according to the Bernama news agency. Mohamed said customers who bought Waja models during the period were requested to have their cars checked at a Proton service centre and have the rims replaced if they are found to be faulty. Proton used to sell six out of every 10 new cars in Malaysia but its market share has been tumbling for the past few years as it feels the bite of growing foreign competition as the government whittles away protection. From a market share of 60 percent in 2002, Proton saw a decline to 48 percent in 2003 and then 44 percent in 2004.

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CASE 3 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Proton YEAR OF RECALL: 2008 and 2006 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Proton Savvy and Waja DESCRIPTIONS: Proton found out that that water could enter the rear wheel-bearing housing, causing the component to malfunction in Savvys. During a random check proton also discovered that Waja models have defects in their aluminium alloy wheel rims. The alloy rims have been found to be technically defective. ACTION TAKEN: Proton recalled a total of 34,000 Proton Savvys due to potential water entry into the rear wheel-bearing which could lead to a malfunction of the affected components. The recall comes two years after the launch of the Savvy. Proton also initiated a recall of 2,996 of its 1.6 litre Waja models during Proton accelerated testing of this particular component, the alloy wheels encountered some difficulties and failed the test and thus the recalling of this particular model.

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CASE 4: Defiant Chrysler Says No to Recall Request

SOURCE:http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/business/2013/06/defiant-chrysler-says-no-to-recall-request/

Chrysler has made a very unusual act of defiance. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sent the firm a letter requesting the recall of 2.7 million Jeeps. But Chrysler challenged the regulators analysis of collision data, saying the Jeeps are safe and it would not honor the request.

NHTSA said the rear-mounted gas tanks in the vehicles were too vulnerable to leaking and could catch fire in a rear-end crash. The Jeeps covered by the request were 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Libertys.

Jeep Grand Cherokees

Such a refusal by an auto company is rare. NHTSA can order a recall but needs a court order to enforce it. David Strickland, the agencys administrator, said in a statement that he hoped Chrysler would reconsider its decision. Our data shows that these vehicles may contain a defect that presents an unreasonable risk to safety, he said. NHTSA opened an investigation into the Jeeps in August 2010 at the request of the Center for Auto Safety, a consumer advocacy group. Clarence Ditlow, the centers director, has repeatedly sent letters to Chrysler seeking a recall.

The agency found that the Jeeps fuel tanks can fail when hit from the rear, leak fuel and cause fires if theres an ignition source. The placement of the tanks behind the rear axle and their height above the road is a design defect, NHTSA said. Chrysler moved the fuel tanks on the Grand Cherokee ahead of the rear axle in 2005, and did the same thing with the Liberty in 2007. But retrofitting the older Jeeps with repositioned tanks would be very expensive.

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CASE 4 ANALYSIS:

COMPANY: Chrysler

YEAR OF RECALL: 2005

PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Jeep Grand Cherokees and Jeep Libertys DESCRIPTIONS: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) first discovered that the rear-mounted gas tanks in the vehicles were too vulnerable to leaking and could catch fire in a rearend crash. ACTION TAKEN: The faulty Jeeps were 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Jeep Libertys. But Chrysler challenged the regulators analysis of collision data, saying the Jeeps are safe and it would not conduct a recall. Chrysler moved the fuel tanks on the Grand Cherokee ahead of the rear axle in 2005, and did the same thing with the Liberty in 2007. But still refuse to recall the previous models that were affected.

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CASE STUDIES FOR HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Cooker Defect Leads To Eight Deaths

SOURCE: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-20640916

An inquest in Cornwall has revealed two men killed by carbon monoxide poisoning from a faulty cooker were the seventh and eight victims of a "known" manufacturing defect. Richard Smith, 30, and Kevin Branton, 34, from Saltash, died at their property in Moorlands Lane, Saltash, in November 2010 when their Flavel cooker's grill produced high levels of carbon monoxide.

Gary Webster from Cornwall trading standards told the inquest at least six other people have died as a result of the defect. The cooker's manufacturer Beko said in a statement that it began a product recall in November 2008 when it became aware of a safety risk if the grill was turned on while the door was closed.

Beko's Flavel Cooker

It said it had attempted to contact more than 21,000 customers to warn them of the fault, but 6,998 affected units remain untraced in the UK.Christine Heemskerk, Trading Standards Institute officer for product safety, said: "They've done their best, it was some time ago now."With recalls 20% is considered a quite good rate - this is about 60% which to be honest is pretty good."Ms Heemskerk added in recent years social media had made it easier for firms to get a message out about a product recall while loyalty cards meant more companies held their customers' contact details.

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According to Dr Gordon Hayward, consumer safety expert, the number of recalls has risen in the past 15 years with 2007 a "peak year". He said: "It's generally gone up over the years as there are powers authorities have now to order a recall, there's a legal duty for companies to do more and the law has been extended across Europe, so if a product is recalled in one country it is recalled across Europe." Dr Hayward said despite trading standards officers having the power to make companies order a product recall, firms generally did a recall themselves before it got to the stage where it became mandatory. "The companies usually prefer to voluntarily run the recall - it costs more if trading standards does it," he said.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS

COMPANY: Beko

YEAR OF RECALL: 2008

PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Beko models DCG8511WLPG, DCG8511PLW and DG581LWP Leisure models CM10NRK, CM10NRC, AL6NDW, CM101NRCP and CM101NRKP Flavel models DCGAP5LS, AP5LDWP, AP5LDW, AP5LDSP and Flavel Milano ML5NDS. DESCRIPTIONS: Beko became aware of a safety risk if the grill was turned on while the door was closed. The defect which release a high amount of carbon monoxide when in used has claimed the lives of 8 peoples. ACTION TAKEN: A cooker's manufacturer Beko, had started a recall of its product in November 2008.It said it had attempted to contact more than 21,000 customers to warn them of the fault, but 6,998 affected units remain untraced in the UK.

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CASE 2: Maytag recalls 1.7 million dishwashers SOURCES:http://www.today.com/id/37484787/ns/today-today_home_and_garden/t/maytagrecalls-million-dishwashers/#.UfKrI41kNic WASHINGTON Maytag Corp. is recalling about 1.7 million dishwashers because of a fire hazard. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, which announced the recall Thursday, says the company has received 12 reports of electrical failures in the dishwasher heating element that led to fires and damage. One kitchen fire caused extensive damage, the agency said. No injuries have been reported. The recall includes Maytag, Amana, Jenn-Air, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley brand dishwashers with plastic tubs. The recalled dishwashers were made with black, bisque, white, silver and stainless steel front panels and sold at department and appliance stores nationwide from February 2006 through April 2010. They cost between $250 and $900. CPSC advises consumers to immediately stop using the recalled dishwashers and disconnect the electric supply by shutting off the fuse or circuit breaker controlling it. Consumers can schedule a free in-home repair or receive a rebate of $150 or $250 toward the purchase of select new Maytag dishwashers. The amount of the rebate depends on the type of model to be purchased. More information on the numerous serial numbers involved in the recall can be found at the company's website or the website for the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Serial Number of Maytag Dishwasher

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: Maytag YEAR OF RECALL: 2010 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Maytag, Amana, Jenn-Air, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley brand dishwashers with plastic tubs. DESCRIPTIONS:The defect of the dishwasher heating element that led to fires and damage have make the company initiated a recall. ACTION TAKEN: The recall includes Maytag, Amana, Jenn-Air, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley brand dishwashers with plastic tubs. The recalled dishwashers were made with black, bisque, white, silver and stainless steel front panels and sold at department and appliance stores nationwide from February 2006 through April 2010.

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CASE 3: Ikea recalls LYDA jumbo cup due to burn hazard

SOURCES:http://www.straitstimes.com/breaking-news/singapore/story/ikea-recalls-lyda-jumbo-cupdue-burn-hazard-20130605

Ikea is recalling a faulty cup, called the LYDA jumbo cup, after receiving reports of injuries to users from Europe. The company said it has received 20 overseas reports of the cup breaking, including 10 reports of injuries caused by scalding. None of the cases were from Singapore. The Swedish furniture retailer said in a press release on Wednesday that the cups can break when hot liquid is poured into them, creating a burn hazard.

IKEA's LYDA Jumbo Cup The stoneware cup with a white base and flower print costing $7.90, was sold between August last year and April 26 this year. No other Ikea cups are affected by the recall. The store is offering a full refund upon return. Customers may return the cups at the exchange and returns counters at either Ikea Tampines or Ikea Alexandra. Customers may call 6786-6868 for more information.

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CASE 3 ANALYSIS: COMPANY: IKEA. YEAR OF RECALL: 2013 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: LYDA jumbo cups DESCRIPTIONS: Ikea discovered the burning hazard of LYDA jumbo cups. The cups can break when hot liquid is poured in them. The cup which can break when hot liquid is poured in it has injured 10 people worldwide, including 10 scalding injuries but no incidents of injury have been reported in the United States. ACTION TAKEN: On 6 June 2013, the major home-furnishing mega store recalled the LYDA jumbo cups as they are a burning hazard. There are currently 220,000 cups worldwide that needs to be recall.

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CASE STUDIES FOR FOOD AND BEVERAGES PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Ricotta Salata Maker On Import Alert After Listeria Outbreak SOURCE:http://www.nbcnews.com/health/ricotta-salata-maker-import-alert-after-listeria-outbreak1B6040219

Update, Sept. 27: At least 18 people in 13 states have been sickened by listeria infections linked to ricotta salata cheese imported from Italy. All 18 victims have been hospitalized and one miscarriage has been reported. The Italian maker of ricotta salata cheese tied to listeria infections that have sickened 15 people in the U.S. -- including as many as three who died -- has been placed on import alert, health officials said Friday. Products from Fattorie Chiarappa S.R.L of Conversano, Italy, will be denied admission into the U.S. unless the importer proves that that the cheese is not contaminated with the potentially deadly listeria monocytogenes bacterium, Food and Drug Administration officials said. People in 12 states and Washington, D.C., have been infected with the outbreak strain of listeria tied to contaminated Marte brand Fresolina ricotta salata cheese. All 15 confirmed victims have been hospitalized. Forever Cheese Inc. of Long Island, N.Y., recalled one lot of the cheese, or about 4,800 pounds, on Sept. 10. However, the recall has expanded now to include all lots and all product codes of the Marte Brand Frescolina ricotta salata cheese. Forever Cheese also has stopped importing cheese from FattorieCiarappa S.R.L. and has recalled two other varieties of cheese, Marte brand roasted ricotta and hard ricotta salata.

Frescolina Rilcotta Salata Cheese

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The cheese may also have been referred to as Ricotta Frescolina Marte Tipo Toscanella or Ricotta Salata Soft Lot (T9425) as it was being distributed. Ricotta salata is a salty white cheese made form pasteurized sheeps milk. It is often served crumbled or grated as an ingredient in salads, pastas or other dishes. It is not the same as the ricotta cheese used for dishes such as lasagna and sold in plastic tubs at grocery stores. Consumers who bought the potentially contaminated cheese are advised to not eat it and to discard any remaining cheese, health officials said. The outbreak sickened three people in Maryland and one person each in the following states or districts: California, Colorado, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington state and the District of Columbia. Illnesses were reported from March 28 and Aug. 30. Three deaths have been reported in connection with the outbreak. Listeriosis contributed to deaths in Nebraska and New York, but did not contribute to a death in Minnesota, officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. Listeria can cause life-threatening infections that primarily affect pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems and the elderly. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches and diarrhea. It can take up to two months after eating contaminated food for the symptoms to appear.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS: COMPANY : Fattorie Chiarappa S.R.L YEAR OF RECALL : 2012 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED : Ricotta Salata Cheese

DESCRIPTIONS: Frescolina ricotta salata cheese has been tied to an outbreak of listeria that hospitalized 14 people and killed 3. On the 27th of September 2012, at least 18 people in 13 states have been sickened by listeria infection that linked to ricotta salata cheese imported from Italy. The listeria infection cause 3 people died from 15 people in US that tied to the ricotta salata cheese. People in 12 states and Washington, D.C., have been infected with theoutbreak strain of listeria tied t o contaminated Marte brand Fresolina ricottasalata cheese. The recall has expended now to include all lots and all product codes of the Marte Brands Frescolina ricotta salata cheese. ACTION TAKEN: Forever Cheese Inc. of Long Island N.Y has stopped importing cheese from FattiorieCiarappa S.R.L and has recalled the other two product of cheese which are Marte brand roasted ricotta and hard ricotta salata. Next health office said that consumers that bought the contaminated cheese are advised not to eat and discard any remaining cheese.

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CASE 2: Salmonella Found In Food Additive Sparks Recall SOURCE: http://articles.latimes.com/2010/mar/05/business/la-fi-fda-recall5-2010mar05

Reporting from Washington The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday announced a potentially massive recall of salad dressing, chip dip, soup mixes and other foods made with a commonly used food additive that may be contaminated with salmonella. Among the products being taken off store shelves is a potato salad from an Oregon supplier, according to the Oregonian newspaper, that makes products distributed under the Safeway and Wal-Mart brands. Safeway Inc. said Thursday that it was removing its Red Potato Salad with Dill products from its Vons and Pavilions stores, as well as its self-named markets. The additive, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, is used in thousands of foods but has not been linked to any illness and it currently presents a low risk to consumers, according to FDA officials. But the agency isn't taking chances. It has asked food producers to check inventories for items that used the recalled lots of the protein. To check whether a food item has been recalled, go to www.foodsafety.gov. Only a few specific brands or products have been recalled since contamination was discovered last month, but "we expect this to get larger over the next several days to several weeks," said Jeff Farrar, FDA associate commissioner of food safety. The vegetable protein was made at a plant operated by Basic Food Flavors Inc. of Las Vegas and discovered when a company customer tested a batch of the additive and reported finding salmonella. FDA inspectors subsequently discovered salmonella bacteria on plant equipment. Basic Food announced a recall of all paste and powdered versions of the protein manufactured since Sept. 17, 2009. Company President Kanu Patel did not return a call seeking comment. The FDA identified the salmonella's genetic fingerprint, enabling the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to confirm this strain has not caused illnesses. Salmonella causes infections marked by diarrhea, vomiting, fever and abdominal pain. Healthy people generally recover without treatment, but salmonella can kill the very young, the elderly and people with weak immune systems.

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Underscoring the potential seriousness of the outbreak, both FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg and the agency's No. 2 official, Joshua Sharfstein, spoke during a conference call with reporters. Sharfstein said the FDA reacted quickly, but he and Hamburg said the incident highlighted the agency's need for more tools to prevent outbreaks instead of reacting to them. Legislation that would give the FDA the power to order recalls on its own authority, instead of pressuring firms to do so, has been stalled in the Senate since last fall.

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY : Safeway Inc. YEAR OF RECALL: 2010 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Food additives

DESCRIPTIONS : A report from Washington, The food and Drug Administration announced that there might be recalled of salad dressing, chip dip, soup mixed and other food that usually used food additive that maybe contaminated with salmonella. In addition, according to FDA officials the additive, hydrolysed vegetable protein is used in mostly food but still not linked to any illness and present a low risk to consumers. The vegetable protein was made at plat operated by Basic Food Flavors Inc. FDA inspectors subsequently discovered salmonella bacteria on the plant equipment. ACTION TAKEN: The solution would be, it has asked food producer to check inventories for items that used to recall lots of protein or either to check whether the food item was recalled on website at www.food safety.gov. Besides that, Basic Food announced a recall of paste and powdered versions of protein manufactured since 17.2009. also, the FDA identified the salmonellas genetic fingerprint, enabling the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to confirm this strain not to caused illness.

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CASE 3: Ikea Recalls Cakes In 23 Countries After Sewage Bacteria Found SOURCE:http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/foodanddrinknews/9910417/Ikea-recalls-cakesin-23-countries-after-sewage-bacteria-found.html

Ikea has recalled thousands of cakes from its stores in 23 countries after Chinese authorities identified high levels of bacteria normally found in human and animal waste. The furniture giant admitted on Tuesday that coliform bacteria had been found in two batches of almond cake from a supplier in Sweden. It comes after Chinese customs officials announced that they had destroyed a batch of 1,800 cakes after finding it contained high levels of coliforms which failed to meet hygiene standards. Coliforms, common bacteria which are found in faeces as well as soil and water, do not normally cause serious illness but are a sign of contamination which can indicate the presence of more harmful bacteria such as E.coli. It comes after Ikea recalled meatballs and sausages from 24 countries due to fears they could have been contaminated with horse meat. Ikea said batches of the cakes sold in all countries had been tested, but no evidence of contamination was found in those sold in the UK and Ireland. The affected batches of almond cake with chocolate and butterscotch all came from the same Swedish supplier which exports to stores across the world, the retailer said.

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A spokesman said: "There is no health risk associated with consuming this product. The production batches have, as per safety and quality routines, been tested for bacteria that can cause health issues, such as E.coli, and none of these pathogen bacteria have been found. "However, since the product does not comply with our strict food quality standards we have decided to withdraw the concerned production batches from sale in the 23 affected countries. The UK and Ireland are not affected." The 23 countries in which almond cake was withdrawn were: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Arab Emirates.

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CASE 3 ANALYSIS: COMPANY : Ikea YEAR OF RECALL: 2013 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Cakes DESCRIPTIONS : After Chinese authorities identified high level of bacteria found in human and animal waste, Ikea has recalled thousands of cakes from its stores in 23 countries. The furniture giant admitted that coliform bacteria had been found in two batches of almond cake from a supplier in Sweden. In addition, Chinese customs had destroyed a batch of 1800 cakes after finding it contained high levels of coliforms which failed to meet hygiene standards. Coliforms are common bacteria which found in faeces as well as soil and water. The bacteria normally not cause serious illness but the sign of contamination which can indicate the presence of more harmful bacteria such as E.coli. Ikea said batches of the cakes sold in all countries had been tested, yet no evidence of contamination was found in those sold in UK and Ireland. However, the retailer said that the affected batches of the cake with chocolate and butterscotch which all came from the same Swedish supplier which exports all around the world. ACTION TAKEN: A spokesman said "There is no health risk associated with consuming this product. The production batches have, as per safety and quality routines, been tested for bacteria that can cause health issues, such as E.coli, and none of these pathogen bacteria have been found. "However, since the product does not comply with our strict food quality standards we have decided to withdraw the concerned production batches from sale in the 23 affected countries.

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CASE STUDIES FOR TOYS PRODUCTS

CASE 1: Seven more children fall ill from tainted toy SOURCE: http://articles.latimes.com/2007/nov/10/nation/na-recall10

WASHINGTON Seven more U.S. children were sickened after ingesting Chinese-made toy beads that were recalled earlier this week because of a toxic chemical coating, the government said Friday. The reports of the sickened children, six of whom were hospitalized, came from at least five states: Texas, Delaware, New Hampshire, Illinois and Utah, according to a spokeswoman for the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The agency recalled the Spin Master Aqua Dots toy Wednesday after two children were hospitalized because they had eaten beads covered with a chemical that metabolizes into the compound gamma hydroxyl butyrate -- the so-called date-rape drug. The compound can induce unconsciousness, seizures, drowsiness, coma and death.

The Spin Master Aqua Dots

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Spokeswoman Julie Vallese said the agency received reports Thursday and Friday of seven additional children sickened by the product, bringing the total to nine. Product recalls frequently spur additional reports of harmed consumers, she said. The recall covers 4.2 million of the Aqua Dots toys, which consist of coloured beads that can be arranged into designs and then fused together when sprayed with water. The agency received its first report of a sickened child Monday and ordered stores to pull the toy two days later, Vallese said. In China, the government's quality-control administration issued an export ban on toys covered with the toxic chemical, sealed the toys at production sites and ordered an investigation, the state-run New China News Agency reported late Friday. The toys are manufactured in China for Australiabased Moose Enterprises, which sells them in 40 countries. The toys, which are sold as Aqua Dots in the United States and as Bindeez in Australia, were recalled in those countries as well as Britain, Malaysia, Singapore and elsewhere this week after tests showed they were coated with the chemical. In the United States, the product safety council follows up with retailers to ensure they are no longer selling a recalled product by visiting stores and performing Web surveillance, Vallese said. The agency also reaches out to online auction sites and second-hand stores to ensure they don't resell the goods. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said it had directed its stores to remove the toys from shelves and placed a stop on the products at its cash registers.

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CASE 1 ANALYSIS: COMPANY : Spin Master Ltd YEAR OF RECALL: 2007 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Toy beads

DESCRIPTIONS : On year 2007, seven more US children were sickened after ingesting Chinese-made toys beads that were recalled because of a toxic chemical coating. After two children were hospitalize because of the beads covered with the chemical that metabolizes into the compound gamma hydroxyl butyrate the agency recalled the Spin master Aqua Dots toy. Furthermore, the recall covers 4.2 million of Aqua Dots toys, which consists of colour beads that can be arranged into designs and then fused together when sprayed with water. ACTION TAKEN: When agency received the first report of sickened child, they ordered stores to pull the toys after two days later. Next, in China the governments quality control administration issue an export ban on toys covered with toxic chemical, sealed the toys at production sites and ordered an investigation. The toys which are sold as Aqua Dots in US, Australia as well as Britain, Malaysia, Singapore and elsewhere were recalled. Besides, in US they had directed its stores to remove the toys from shelves and placed a stop on the products.

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CASE 2: Burger King Corporation Announces Voluntary Recall of Pokmon Ball SOURCES: http://dogasu.bulbagarden.net/bashing/burger_king.html

Miami, FL - December 27, 1999 - Burger King Corporation is voluntarily recalling the Pokmon balls included with BURGER KING kids meals. The balls may pose a suffocation hazard to children under three years of age. Pokmon balls are the ball-shaped plastic containers that hold Pokmon toys in BURGER KING kids meals. Either half of the Pokmon ball can become stuck on a child's face, covering the nose and mouth and may cause suffocation of a child under three years of age. A 13-month-old girl reportedly suffocated when one half of a Pokmon ball covered her nose and mouth. An 18-month old girl reportedly also had a ball half stuck over her face causing her distress; however, the girl's father on the second attempt pulled the ball-half from her face and no injury resulted.

The Pokeballs The Pokmon balls are plastic ball-shaped containers between 2 " and 3" in diameter. They pull apart to reveal one of 57 different Pokmon toys inside. The balls were distributed in a variety of colors including red and white, and hot pink. Packaging described them as safety tested and recommended for all ages of children.

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BURGER KING restaurants nationwide distributed the Pokmon Balls inside BURGER KING BIG KIDS MEALS and regular kids meals from early November through December, 1999. Consumers should immediately take the balls away from children under the age of three. They should discard the ball or return both halves of the ball to a BURGER KING restaurant for a free small order of french fries. Consumers may continue to use the Pokmon toy that came inside the ball. BURGER KING restaurants will continue to distribute the Pokmon toys in balls with BURGER KING BIG KIDS MEALS, but the Pokmon balls will no longer be included with the toy in the regular kids club meals, generally intended for younger children. Consumers should not allow children younger than the age of three to play with these balls. On Friday, December 24, 1999, Burger King Corporation instructed all of its U.S. restaurants to discontinue distributing the Pok Balls with its Kids Meals. Thereafter, on Friday, December 31, 1999, out of an abundance of caution, the company decided to cease distribution of the Pok Balls with its Big Kids Meals as well.

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CASE 2 ANALYSIS: COMPANY : Burger King YEAR OF RECALL: 1999 PRODUCT(S) AFFECTED: Poke Balls DESCRIPTION: Pokeballs may pose a suffocation hazard to children under three years of age. Pokemon balls are ball shaped plastic containers that can hold Pokemon toys in Burger King kids meals. Furthermore, either half of the Poke ball can stuck on a childs face which cover their nose and mouth and cause suffocation of a three years old children. As example, there is a case of a 13 month old girl reportedly suffocated when one half of the poke ball cover her nose and mouth. Though, BURGER KING restaurants has been national wide distributed the Pokmon Balls inside BURGER KING BIG KIDS MEALS™ and regular kids meals from early November through December, 1999. Consumers may continue to use the Pokmon toy that came inside the ball. ACTION TAKEN: Finally, Burger King restaurants has decided will continue to distribute the Pokemon toys in balls with Burger King Kids Meals, but the poke ball will no longer be included with the toys in the regular lids club meals which is intended for a younger children. In addition, on 24th of December 1999, Burger King corporation has instructed that all of its US restaurants to stop distributing poke balls with its Kids Meals. Thereafter, as a caution, the company decided to stop the distribution of Poke Balls with its Big Kids Meals as well.

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SURVEY EXPECTATION

The survey consist of three parts, consumerism, engineering ethics and case study. There are 12 questions and 50 respondents are involve with this survey. The target respondents are students from Uniten, who are pursuing Engineering programmes. The first section, Section A are being put under consumerism theme. 5 questions are being ask for the respondent's involvements, experiences, and observation on the topic. Part A are more likely to ask the respondent as a consumer. As we all know consumer always expect the qualities of a product to be good as its price. The second questions ask about the respondent's awareness about consumer's right, which is "The Right To Redress". Consumers have rights to receive a fair settlement of just claims, including compensation for misrepresentation, shoddy goods or unsatisfactory services. Another significant thing related to product defect is the product recall procedure. Respondents are being ask with this topic in question no.3 and no.4. In implementing a good product recall, the spreading media should reach the consumer effectively. From the consumer's observation and experiences, they are being asked which media is the best in spreading the information about product recall procedure. The last question in this section ask about the consumer's trust on a brand after experiencing product defects or product recall procedure. Section B are related to engineering ethics. All the respondents comes from various engineering disciplines and are about to be an engineer soon. The questions are designed to study their engineering ethics and what will they do in the situation as the main question, which is Should a company reveal/replace defective products even if customers wont recognize the defect?. The defects can be recognized before, or after the sales of a product. Respondents are being ask if being in any of these two dilemma. Question no.8 is a bit tricky for the respondents. It is to see one's decision during dilemma which the product is sold, but nobody recognize the defects. A part from these questions, there are question asking about which one is more important, whether quality, or time, in term of product marketing. The last question in this section gives a statement, which says that product recall procedure will grant profit in a long run. This is to let the respondents think in a long term, whether to jeopardize the quality for the sake of temporary profit, or to serve the best quality in delivering a good products.

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The very last section are case study related. This section consist of two questions about product defects, and product recall that are quite significant in past 10 years. The first case is about the Intel's Pentium FDIV bug that happens in 1994. A few missing data has resulting a chip which has in accurate results in approximately 1 in 9 billion calculation. Intel are about to ignore the defect at the first place, and referring it as insignificant error. Given this dilemma, respondents are asked about Intel's decision to ignore the defect as right or wrong, based on engineering ethics. The second case study is about Chrysler and The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conflicts. NHTSA sent a letter to Chrysler to recall 2.7 million Jeeps due to the rear-mounted gas tanks that are too vulnerable to leaking and could start a fire if accidently crash from behind. Chrysler just ignore the request and keep with their opinion which is the Jeeps are safe. This controversial case are being ask to see the respondents opinion about the Chrysler's action in this situation.

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INTERVIEW SESSIONS

INTERVIEW SESSION WITH DEPUTY DEAN OF COE, ACADEMIC AND QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER

Dr. Miszaina binti Osman:

1.

What do you understand about product recall?

From what I know, product recall is when a company requests to recall a certain batch of product because they found out that there are some defects iin the product. Basically, this relates back to safety issues.

2.

Have you ever had any experience with a product recalls procedures before?

No, I dont think so. I never had any involvement with those procedures.

3.

In your opinion, why do you think companies should recall a product that is found to be defective?

I think if the product is defective, like its having a major problem and it affects the whole batch, lets say the 2013 batch for an example, has that defect and it affects the safety of the consumer, they should recall the whole batch. If I can remember correctly, I think at one time Toyota called back their Prius model because it posed danger to their customers. Then its a must for them to recall their product because when it concern safety, they are liable to be sued for negligence by customers. To avoid further problems and incur more cost in terms of legal fees and all that, they should recall back their product if they found the defects in the early stage.

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4.

How much do you know about the Consumer Protection Act in Malaysia?

All I know that they exist but I think Malaysia has that kind of act is there but people are not that aware and the public does not understand the content of the act. But all we know that it is there to protect the consumers and also to give the industry some sort of benchmark requirements.

5.

Recently in China, there were two incidents happened due to defective product. First, a woman died because she was electrocuted while she was using a charging iPhone. Second, a Samsung Galaxy S3 exploded in the pocket of a teenage girl and caused her to suffer 2 nd degree burn in her thigh area. The question is: what are the reasonable actions that Apple and Samsung should take in response to these incidents?

In the first place, they must check what happened because phones dont simply explode just like that or electrocute people. They have to find out the cause and if the customer wants to replace the phone because of that incident, then the company should investigate whether it happened due to defect or otherwise.

6.

Say, you are the head of engineer for an electronics consumer product company. After shipping your product into the market, you realize that the product has defects but the defects are not obvious and do not affect the products performance. Are you going to recall the product? Why?

In my opinion, maybe I wouldnt go to the point of recalling back all the product because the defects do not affect the performance of the product. Perhaps, a statement of apology to the customer should be given and maybe give them some kind of compensations in terms of vouchers. You make people happy and you reimburse back like lets say the laptop is RM 1000, you can reimburse back with a RM 100 voucher.

7.

Are there any alternative solutions to defective products other than product recall?

Similar to what I said just now, maybe they can give an apology statement, cash vouchers, discounts of future products and all that. Something that will make customers happy. You dont wait for the customers to find out first. Else, you will lose their trust.

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8.

Do you think that Malaysia, as a whole, protect consumers rights against defective products?

I think in the law it says yes but the culture is not. We are not like America where the customers have a strong say. But in Malaysia I dont think so. The culture of Malaysian is that when there is a defect in product, they just remain silent. Even if it is a big issue, I find that it is not really our culture to sue companies. In a conclusion, I believe the consumers rights in Malaysia is not strong.

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INTERVIEW SESSION WITH HEAD OF DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL POWER

Dr. Ungku Anisa binti Ungku Amirulddin Al Amin:

1.

What do you understand about product recall?

Product recalls happen if the manufacturer or any authorizing body that monitors product and finds any of the products that cause adverse effect or threaten or problems in terms of safety to the user.

2.

Have you ever had any experience with a product recalls procedures before?

Experience with devices not functioning properly, yes but normally its not a product. Product recall is basically when there is a notice saying that the product must be returned. So, I only had encountered faulty devices but not with the procedures of a recall.

3.

In your opinion, why do you think companies should recall a product that is found to be defective?

They should recall if it poses threat to the user. If it is concerning the users safety and health, then it is the manufacturer duty to recall back the item.

4.

How much do you know about the Consumer Protection Act in Malaysia?

I know that there is a consumer protection act but I do not know in detail. Briefly, I understand that consumers are protected if they find that the product that they bought has defects that can affect the users health and safety.

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5.

Recently in China, there were two incidents happened due to defective product. First, a woman died because she was electrocuted while she was using a charging iPhone. Second, a Samsung Galaxy S3 exploded in the pocket of a teenage girl and caused her to suffer 2 nd degree burn in her thigh area. The question is: what are the reasonable actions that Apple and Samsung should take in response to these incidents?

I think the persons involved in the incidents have the right to report and to get compensation from the companies involved. And the companies should investigate whether this occurrence whether this is going to happen in other devices, then they should consider recalling the product.

6.

Say, you are the head of engineer for an electronics consumer product company. After shipping your product into the market, you realize that the product has defects but the defects are not obvious and do not affect the products performance. Are you going to recall the product? Why?

If it is not obvious and does not affect the performance of the device but if it poses threat to the customers, by all means it should be recalled because if it affects the consumers, there will be a possibility that it will give more adverse effects to the company in terms of reputation and compensation that they have to face. Rather than risking the companys reputation, I should recall back the entire product.

7.

Are there any alternative solutions to defective products other than product recall?

To avoid it, they must follow the proper procedures and the proper testings so that the quality of the product is good and meet the standards that have been set by authorities.

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8.

Do you think that Malaysia, as a whole, protect consumers rights against defective products?

I think the government has prepared the avenue in terms of Consumer Protection Act for the customers to protect themselves against defective product. Its just that maybe the awareness among our people is not there. I think most of the educated people would be aware of this but those in the lower income group and people in the rural area are not aware of this. Maybe they can be exposed to this and be more aware of their right because the avenue is there. It is a place for us to complain and uphold our rights.

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RECOMMENDATION

After the survey have been analysed, and further discussion with the group members, we have concluded to come out with two parts of recommendation . One part for the consumer, and the other one for the engineers, as part of the product manufacturing team. For consumers, our recommendation hopefully could teach them about consumer's right and about product liability. Why engineers has been chosen from the manufacturing team are because engineers are like the decision makers of a product's quality before gaining approval from others. Engineers also have a set of engineering ethics that has been implemented by the BEM. RECCOMENDATION FOR CONSUMERS The march of modernisation and the introduction of products of greater sophistication and complexity in the marketplace have also seen the rising trend of damage, injury and adverse consequences suffered by consumers as a result of product failure, shady workmanship or defective design, consumers have to keep their eyes peeled to check for defect that might have been overlooked by the manufacturer. There are laws not just in Malaysia but worldwide to protect customers from unethical manufacturers that sometimes try to hide their defective product in order to gross more profit from it. Product liability law seeks to provide assurance for damage suffered by the victims of defective products. The body of law composes a composite mix of various statutes and common law principles. Over the years, product liability law has undergone rapid changes and become increasingly important in the contemporary legal, social and economic development of many countries in different parts of the world including Malaysia. Customers who found a defects or are effected by the defects of a certain product must exercise their right under Malaysia consumers protection act, which are design to product consumer from this errant manufacturers. There is also product liability insurance that can be taken to make sure you are protected from unwanted incidents. If the product does cause harm, the victim has a right to enforce his legal rights in a court of law. Product Liability Insurance is designed to identify the manufacturer or supplier of the 'defective' product against losses resulting in bodily injury or property damage arising from the use of the 'defective' product.

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Generally, product liability claims arise from the following three core causes which are design defect, manufacturing defect and marketing misrepresentation. Product Liability Insurance is commonly written in a Claims-Made Basis form. It is a liability policy, which will indemnify the Insured against all losses arising from the consumption or use of the product giving rise to the following accidental bodily injury, accidental damage to property. As a consumer, action must be taken to uphold their right. Sometimes manufacturers are not aware of the defect arise from their product, as consumer it is their morally right to inform the authority and the manufacturers to make sure that the effect of the defect can be minimise, as we can see from the case studies done, lives had been loss because of one small mistakes. We must work together to minimise this unnecessary loss of lives or even bodily harm. RECCOMENDATION FOR ENGINEERS Engineers are the one that representing the manufacturers in the design and development of a product ranging from automobiles to household items. Most of the times, the defect of a product can be trace back to faulty design that might have been overlooked by engineers. The concept of safety and reliability has been altered from a purely engineering/manufacturing concept to a legal/manufacturing approach. This new approach requires an understanding of legal concepts as related to the manufacturing and design process. The engineer's role has shifted to include a safety audit analysis to minimize the existence of a product defect and/or to defend the product in a way that is responsive to the legal concerns. The engineer's knowledge, now days must include a thorough grounding in the complex, continually changing concepts of products liability law. Such information is essential if an engineer is to recognize "defectiveness" as it occurs in product warnings, instruction manuals or advertisements, and other areas not traditionally associated with engineering. The public is becoming increasingly aware that the benefits of industrial progress must be balanced with the growing need to protect the public from damages caused by products and byproducts of technology. Thus, engineers are often placed at the centre of the controversy, between product safety and social responsibility on the one hand and legal liability on the other. The field of business ethics often overlaps with ethical decision which causes engineers to compromise on their principles.

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Honesty is the best policy. Engineer should be honest to their client no matter of the outcome. If a flaws or damage is found in a product, they should take immediate action and be accountable of it. Some companies are afraid of losses and tarnishing the companys integrity if the defects of the product are made known to the public. Unethical action such as using a scape goat is often the way out to preserve one companys reputation. One sacrifice for the good of all and the sacrificial party would be paid a high compensation for this. This unethical means shouldnt be adopted by engineers nor even administrations of companies as people often depend their life on the safety and workability of engineered product.

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CONCLUSION

REFERENCES

APPENDIX

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SURVEY SAMPLE

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MINUTES OF MEETING
17th June 2013 9.30pm COE Food court, UNITEN FARHAN, UMAR, SOBRI, YUSRI, HUSNI, FIQRI 1. Question review Reviewing the question, and listing the requirement of the complete report. Each members was assigned with few sections of the final reports. Aminul Sobri Fiqri Umar Yusri Farhan Introduction, literature review Objectives, survey analysis Case studies, literature review Case studies, acknowledgement Case studies, recommendation Methodology, survey form

DATE TIME PLACE ATTENDANCE AGENDA

2. Survey Form Discussing set of questions for the research and related things such as the target respondent and medium in spreading the survey form. The target group was agreed to be the UNITEN students, since professional engineers are hard to reach within the time constrain. Online survey form, using Google Drive Survey will be used instead of paper survey form. Farhan responsible for online survey form, ever group members will later distributed the survey form. 3. Case Studies Brainstorming the case studies. Instead of jumble up the case studies, we suggest to make it in six main categories. Each category will consist of two or three case studies related. Each member was assigned to identify related case studies as categorised. 4. Other Discussion The basic structure of the report was discussed, and work has been divided among group members.

THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 10.15pm

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MINUTES OF MEETING
2nd July 2013 9.30 COE Food court, UNITEN HUSNI, SOBRI, YUSRI, FARHAN, FIQRI,UMAR 1. Survey Responds 50 Survey responds was collected within a week. The results were discussed within the group. Discussion of result will be presented in result analysis later, by Sobri. 2. Case Studies 12 case studies from various categories was finalized. Each case reviewed and discussed. The case studies will be summarised by Umar, Yusri, and Fiqri. 3. Literature Review Related topics to the main question will be included in the literature review sections. Person in charge for literature review are Fiqri and Aminul. 4. Interview Session As addition to the existing survey, interview session with the lecturers in UNITEN will be included. A set of open ended question was discussed for the interview session. Umar will be in charge of this interview session.

DATE TIME PLACE ATTENDANCE AGENDA

THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11.00pm

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MINUTES OF MEETING
23rd July 2013 9.00pm COE Food court YUSRI, UMAR , FARHAN, HUSNI, FIQRI, SOBRI 1. Survey analysis Further discussion on the survey analysis. 2. Case studies Reviewing and discussion on the completed case studies. Few minor changes have been made to synchronise all the case studies. Another few case studies were added. 3. Completed task review The entire completed task was reviewed, and discussed. Few adjustments were noted and will be improved. 4. Conclusion discussion Based on the survey analysis, case studies, and interview sessions, all the information will be summarise in the conclusion session. Person in charge for conclusion is Farhan. 5. Final report All the soft copy of works by group members was collected and will be compiled for the final report. Farhan will compiled everything, and synchronise the formatting.

DATE TIME PLACE ATTENDANCE AGENDA

THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11.00pm

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