Human Resource Case Incident

(This case is intended for classroom discussion only and is not intended to show correct or incorrect management of a case. It is
patterned from an actual situation of the company understudy. Some personal details and information of the characters involved
are altered and the structures and procedures of the organization are purely hypothetical to fit in the situation being portrayed in
the case. The company is disguised to protect the identity of the owners. )

FBE Corporation manufactures refrigerators, freezers and airconditioners since 2000. FBE has

become a market leader since 2010 beating its most stiff competitor, GYE Inc. FBE brand is the most

preferred by consumers because of its quality, endurance and after sales services.

Its manufacturing plant is located in Calamba, Laguna and is operating in three shifts. There has

been a consistent demand for its refrigerators and freezers among newly-established restaurants nearby as

well as additional airconditioning units for hotels in the South of Metro Manila.

FBE has 2,000 employees who are occupying various positions both in administration and operations.

FBE also employs student trainees, particularly Grade 12 in senior high school as part of their immersion

program. These trainees are assigned in various areas depending on their field of specialization. There are

also trainees who are taking up technical vocational courses who are usually assigned in the plant.

FBE has a reputation for providing extensive training and experience for student-trainees. Since

many schools would like their students to have their immersion in FBE, the company decided to make it on

a first come, first served basis. Students fill up application forms before the start of the program. HR

Director, Luis Pabalan usually informs all the supervisors where the students are assigned to orient them

on basic rules and protocol. Trainees who are assigned at the plant are provided with safety gears for

protection.

One Monday morning, Mr. Pabalan was informed of several injuries among trainees assigned in the

plant due to a mechanical failure in the assembly line. Vice President for Administration, Jaime Quiambao

immediately called Mr. Pabalan to explain what happened. However, Mr. Pabalan said that it was an

isolated case and it will not happen again. Mr. Quiambao reiterated the importance of an orientation

program that should be given to all trainees prior to their immersion. The program should contain all the

policies as well as the safety measures required especially when they are inside the plant. Mr. Pabalan said
he has entrusted this to the supervisors who will train the students. Mr. Quiambao however said that HR

should be on top of the orientation program for trainees. He warned Mr. Pabalan that this should not happen

again. The Vice President also asked him to develop an orientation program specifically for the trainees.

Questions:

1. What is the relevance of an orientation program before starting work?

2. What is the role of HR on its implementation?

3. How can the supervisors support this particular program?