Professional Ethics in Engineering, Part 8: The NSPE Code and the BER

Summary

In this video, Professor Michael Louie discusses the code of ethics of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). He highlights its evolution since the 1940s and the addition of clauses promoting sustainable development. The NSPE code, more detailed than other engineering codes, emphasizes engineers' obligation to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Key provisions cover issues such as signatures, compensation, confidentiality, and intellectual property. The NSPE also has a Board of Ethical Review that issues advisory opinions on ethical matters in engineering practice, fostering discussions and understanding of ethical issues.

Takeaways

• 😀 The NSPE (National Society of Professional Engineers) Code of Ethics is the oldest among engineering ethics codes and has evolved since the 1940s.
• 😀 The NSPE Code of Ethics emphasizes the paramount importance of protecting the public health, safety, and welfare in engineering practice.
• 😀 The code includes provisions for sustainable development to protect the environment for future generations.
• 😀 Engineers are expected to exhibit the highest standards of honesty, impartiality, fairness, and equity in their professional conduct.
• 😀 Engineers must only sign documents and plans in areas where they have competence and familiarity, ensuring their expertise in the subject matter.
• 😀 The code prohibits engineers from accepting compensation from multiple parties for the same project unless fully disclosed and agreed upon.
• 😀 Confidentiality is a core principle, and engineers are prohibited from disclosing confidential information without consent, even after employment ends.
• 😀 Engineers must establish clear agreements regarding ownership of intellectual property, such as patents and copyrights, before starting projects that may involve such creations.
• 😀 The NSPE Board of Ethical Review (BER) provides advisory opinions on ethical issues submitted by members, helping to interpret the code of ethics in real-world scenarios.
• 😀 The BER does not have legal authority but aims to stimulate discussions on ethical issues and promote understanding of the NSPE Code of Ethics.
• 😀 Most cases reviewed by the BER relate to independent consulting engineers, with very few involving corporate contexts like conflicts of interest or whistleblowing.

Q & A

What is the role of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) code of ethics?

The NSPE code of ethics serves to guide professional conduct for licensed engineers, particularly focusing on their obligations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, while ensuring honesty, impartiality, and fairness in their services.

How has the NSPE code of ethics evolved since the 1940s?

Since the 1940s, the NSPE code of ethics has evolved to address issues like competitive bidding, advertising, compensation for services, professional development, and, most recently, the promotion of sustainable development to protect the environment for future generations.

What are the four sections of the NSPE code of ethics?

The four sections of the NSPE code of ethics include the Preamble, Fundamental Cannons, Rules of Practice, and Statements of Professional Obligations.

What does the Preamble of the NSPE code of ethics emphasize?

The Preamble emphasizes that engineering is a vital profession that impacts the quality of life for all people. It calls for engineers to exhibit the highest standards of honesty and integrity, with a commitment to public health, safety, and welfare.

What does the NSPE code of ethics say about an engineer’s responsibility to the public?

The NSPE code of ethics asserts that the health, safety, and welfare of the public are paramount. Engineers are expected to prioritize these concerns in their work, ensuring that their services contribute positively to society.

What does the NSPE code of ethics say about engineers affixing their signatures to documents?

Engineers are prohibited from affixing their signatures to any plans or documents in which they lack competence or to those not prepared under their direction and control. This ensures accountability and expertise in the documentation.

How does the NSPE code of ethics address issues of compensation?

The NSPE code of ethics prohibits engineers from accepting compensation from more than one party for the same project unless all parties are fully informed and agree to the arrangement, preventing conflicts of interest and unethical practices like kickbacks.

What obligations do engineers have regarding confidentiality according to the NSPE code of ethics?

Engineers are required to maintain confidentiality about business affairs, technical processes, and other sensitive information from current or former clients and employers, ensuring that such information is not disclosed without consent.

What does the NSPE code of ethics say about intellectual property?

The NSPE code of ethics requires engineers to establish agreements regarding the ownership of any intellectual property, such as copyrights or patents, that might arise from their work to avoid disputes over rights and ownership.

What is the role of the Board of Ethical Review (BER) in the NSPE code of ethics?

The Board of Ethical Review (BER) consists of experts who review ethical questions submitted by NSPE members or state societies. They issue advisory opinions based on the interpretation of the code of ethics, aiming to stimulate ethical discussions and promote understanding.