Step 1: Contextual Framework Pass (Facts)

Section Content:

Facts:
Engineer A works for Company X in connection with the design and manufacturing of a new consumer product.
During and following the company’s standard safety testing process (which has been completed and has demonstrated that the new consumer product is within acceptable safety parameters), Engineer A observes what Engineer A believes are inconsistent product performance issues that in Engineer A’s opinion raise unique safety concerns.
Engineer A recommends to Supervisor B that Company X conduct a new series of tests to determine whether the new consumer product will be operated safely by consumers.
Current national product safety standards do not yet address the new product or its potential impact on consumer safety.
Currently, there are no governmental or industry standards relating to this new consumer product other than general and standard product safety-testing policies and procedures.
Because of the potential cost and the delay that may result due to additional testing, Company X rejects Engineer A’s recommendation that it perform additional safety testing.
Later, Engineer A resigns from Company X.
One year later, the relevant government agency announces a public safety standard hearing in connection with a series of new consumer products, including the new product developed by Company X and ones developed by its competitors.
Engineer A is considering participating as a witness at the public safety standards hearing.