2.3.3 - Code of Ethics for Engineers

What is the primary responsibility of engineers according to the Code of Ethics?

• Maximize profits for their company.

• Prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of the public.

• Innovate new technologies.

• Reduce costs in engineering projects.

Answer explanation

According to the Code of Ethics, engineers must prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of the public above all else, ensuring that their work does not harm individuals or communities.

Which of the following is a rule under 'Competence' in the Code of Ethics?

• Report violations of the Code to appropriate authorities.

• Undertake work only when qualified.

• Disclose conflicts of interest.

• Avoid association with dishonest enterprises.

Answer explanation

The rule 'Undertake work only when qualified' emphasizes the importance of competence in the Code of Ethics, ensuring that professionals only engage in tasks for which they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

What should engineers do to maintain 'Client Trust'?

• Accept compensation from multiple parties.

• Disclose conflicts of interest.

• Misrepresent qualifications.

• Avoid reporting serious risks.

Answer explanation

To maintain 'Client Trust', engineers should disclose conflicts of interest. This transparency fosters trust and ensures clients are aware of any potential biases, unlike the other options which compromise integrity.

According to the Code of Ethics, what should engineers avoid under 'Deceptive Practices'?

• Making objective and truthful public statements.

• Avoiding any actions that could be seen as attempts to influence contract awards.

• Providing services within their areas of competence.

• Acting as faithful agents for their employers or clients.

Answer explanation

Engineers should avoid any actions that could be seen as attempts to influence contract awards, as this falls under deceptive practices. This ensures integrity and fairness in the engineering profession.

What is one of the key aspects of maintaining integrity in engineering?

• Acknowledge errors and provide honest advice.

• Promote non-compliant plans.

• Mislead other engineers.

• Accept incentives from suppliers.

Answer explanation

A key aspect of maintaining integrity in engineering is to acknowledge errors and provide honest advice. This fosters trust and accountability, which are essential for ethical practice in the field.

Which action is part of public service in engineering?

• Participate in community affairs and promote engineering.

• Avoid misleading statements.

• Maintain confidentiality regarding clients' information.

• Accept personal accountability for professional activities.

Answer explanation

Participating in community affairs and promoting engineering is a key aspect of public service in engineering, as it fosters community engagement and enhances the visibility and importance of the engineering profession.

What should engineers avoid to prevent public deception?

• Avoid misleading statements.

• Promote non-compliant plans.

• Accept incentives from suppliers.

• Use employer resources for private work.

Answer explanation

Engineers should avoid misleading statements to maintain public trust and integrity. Misleading information can lead to deception, while promoting transparency is essential for ethical engineering practices.

What is a key principle of confidentiality in engineering?

• Maintain confidentiality regarding clients' information.

• Acknowledge contributions to engineering work.

• Ensure transparency when reviewing colleagues' work.

• Adhere to state registration laws.

Answer explanation

A key principle of confidentiality in engineering is to maintain confidentiality regarding clients' information. This ensures trust and protects sensitive data, which is crucial for professional integrity.

What should engineers do to handle conflicts of interest?

• Do not accept incentives from suppliers or contractors.

• Promote non-compliant plans.

• Mislead other engineers.

• Avoid acknowledging errors.

Answer explanation

Engineers should not accept incentives from suppliers or contractors to avoid conflicts of interest. This ensures integrity and impartiality in their work, promoting ethical standards in engineering.

How should engineers show respect among themselves?

• Do not maliciously harm the reputation of others.

• Promote non-compliant plans.

• Accept incentives from suppliers.

• Avoid acknowledging contributions.

Answer explanation

Engineers should show respect by not harming each other's reputations. This fosters a positive work environment and encourages collaboration, while the other options promote unethical behavior.