1.
Explain five ethical dilemmas. Explain that if you faced for each ethical dilemma,
what is the action you will take?
a. Infringing Copyright: You're working on an engineering project and come across a
design or solution developed by another engineer or company that would greatly benefit
your project. However, you realize that implementing it without proper
acknowledgment or permission would infringe on their copyright.
Action: I would first attempt to obtain permission from the original creator or company
to use their design, ensuring proper acknowledgment and potentially negotiating terms
for its use. If permission cannot be obtained, I would explore alternative solutions or
design modifications to achieve the project's goals without infringing on copyright.
b. Environmental Impact: During the planning or execution of an engineering project, you
become aware of potential environmental issues such as pollution, habitat destruction,
or resource depletion. Ignoring these concerns could result in significant harm to the
environment.
Action: I would prioritize environmental stewardship and advocate for measures to
mitigate or minimize the project's environmental impact. This might involve
incorporating sustainable practices, utilizing eco-friendly materials, conducting
environmental impact assessments, and collaborating with environmental experts to
find viable solutions.
c. Balancing Ethical Obligations: As an engineer, you often have ethical obligations to
various stakeholders, including your employer, client, the public, and the engineering
profession. However, these obligations may conflict in certain situations, such as when
cost-cutting measures compromise safety or quality.
Action: I would carefully evaluate the ethical implications of each decision and strive
to find a balance that upholds the highest ethical standards while fulfilling obligations
to all stakeholders. This might involve transparent communication, ethical decisionmaking frameworks, and prioritizing public safety and welfare above all else.
d. Design Standards and Codes: You encounter a situation where following existing
design standards and codes may result in a suboptimal or unsafe solution due to
inadequacy or outdatedness. However, deviating from these standards could raise
ethical concerns regarding safety and compliance.
Action: I would critically assess the design standards and codes in question, considering
their relevance, applicability, and potential limitations. If the standards are inadequate
or outdated, I would advocate for their revision or supplementation based on current
knowledge and best practices. In the meantime, I would exercise professional judgment
and consider alternative approaches to ensure the safety and integrity of the project.
e. Conflicting Interests in Project Managemen: You're tasked with managing an
engineering project where competing interests, such as cost, schedule, and quality, may
conflict. For example, cutting corners to meet tight deadlines could compromise the
project's quality or safety.
Action: I would prioritize open and transparent communication with all stakeholders to
ensure alignment on project objectives and constraints. I would advocate for realistic
project timelines and budgets that allow for adequate quality assurance and risk
management. If conflicts arise, I would facilitate collaborative decision-making
processes that prioritize ethical considerations and the long-term success of the project.
2.
What you learned from Upper Kothmale project which was explained by the
lecturer?
Compliance with Regulations and Standards: Engineering projects must adhere to relevant
regulations, standards, and codes of practice to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with
legal requirements. Engineers have an ethical obligation to stay informed about applicable
regulations and standards and ensure that project designs and construction practices meet or
exceed these requirements. Compliance with regulations and standards promotes public safety,
protects the environment, and upholds professional integrity.
Sustainable Development and Resource Management: Hydroelectric power projects like Upper
Kotmale have the potential to contribute to sustainable development by providing clean energy
and supporting economic growth. However, engineers must consider the long-term
sustainability of such projects, including water resource management, ecosystem conservation,
and climate resilience. Sustainable engineering practices prioritize environmental stewardship,
resource efficiency, and equitable development to meet the needs of present and future
generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
3.
Write three engineering mistakes in the world and their violation of IESL code of
ethics.

Pontiac Silverdome Roof Collapse (2013): The collapse of the roof of the Pontiac
Silverdome stadium in Michigan was attributed to a combination of design flaws,
inadequate maintenance, and aging infrastructure. The incident occurred during the
demolition process, highlighting structural weaknesses that had been present for years.
Violation of IESL Code of Ethics: This mistake could violate the IESL code by failing
to ensure the safety and integrity of engineering structures and facilities (Article 1) and
by failing to adhere to professional standards and best practices in engineering design,
construction, and maintenance (Article 6).

Flint Water Crisis (2014-2019): The Flint water crisis involved the contamination of
the city's drinking water supply with lead and other pollutants, leading to widespread
health problems among residents. The crisis was the result of engineering failures,
including inadequate corrosion control measures and neglect of public health concerns.
Violation of IESL Code of Ethics: This mistake could violate the IESL code by failing
to prioritize public health and welfare (Article 1), by failing to adhere to professional
standards and best practices in engineering design and management of water supply
systems (Article 6), and by failing to communicate effectively with stakeholders and
the public about potential risks and hazards (Article 7).

Morandi Bridge Collapse (2018): The collapse of the Morandi Bridge in Genoa, Italy,
resulted in multiple fatalities and highlighted deficiencies in bridge design,
maintenance, and inspection. The incident raised questions about the structural integrity
of aging infrastructure and the effectiveness of regulatory oversight.
Violation of IESL Code of Ethics: This mistake could violate the IESL code by failing
to ensure the safety and integrity of engineering structures and facilities (Article 1), by
failing to adhere to professional standards and best practices in engineering design,
construction, and maintenance (Article 6), and by failing to prioritize public safety and
welfare in infrastructure planning and management (Article 8).