Engineering
Ethics
Minerva/MITACS Engineering Modules Project
Submitted by the University of Manitoba
Colleen Flather, P.Eng.
• Introduction
• Case Study 3
• Ethical Canons
• Lessons Learned
• Case Study 1
• Further Discussion
• Case Study 2
• References
Module Outline
All images used in this model were sourced from wiki commons or Microsoft clip art. There are no copyright infringements.
This module explores the ethics and ethical behaviour expected in the Engineering profession.
Ethics – accepted principles of right and wrong that govern the conduct of a profession. (compiled
definition from various sources, see references)
The Engineering profession, through its provincial governing bodies, has defined expected ethical
behaviour for its members. Engineering ethics provides consistent behaviour for the protection of
the public and members of the profession.
Introduction
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Morals differ from ethics.
Morals – behaviour governed by a person’s sense of right and wrong, based on religious beliefs and
societal norms. (compiled definition from various sources, see references)
Morals are based on a personal belief system, can be changed or altered by education, societal
changes or cultural norms. Morals are the angels and demons on your shoulder.
Ethics are defined behaviours, clearly outlined with little scope for personal interpretation.
Ethics and morals both relate to “right” and “wrong” conduct. However, ethics refer to
the series of rules provided to an individual by an external source. e.g. their profession.
On the other hand, morals refer to an individual’s own principles regarding right and
wrong. (Diffen, 2012)
Introduction
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
The Ethical Canons
Each provincial governing body has fundamental ethical canons that it uses to define a code of ethics.
This module uses the canons of APEGM, the Manitoba professional association. The canons of ethics
across Canada reflect similar concepts and ideas.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
THE 5 FUNDAMENTAL CANONS OF APEGM
1.
Each practitioner shall obey the laws of the land.
2.
Each practitioner shall regard the physical, economic and environmental well-being of the
public as the prime responsibility in all aspects of professional engineering and professional
geoscientific work.
3.
Each practitioner shall employ all reasonably attainable skill and knowledge to perform and
satisfy the engineering and geoscientific needs of each client or employer in a professional
manner.
4.
Each practitioner shall uphold and enhance the honour, integrity and dignity of the engineering
and geoscientific professions.
5.
Each practitioner shall be fair to colleagues and shall support their professional development.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
THE FUNDAMENTAL CANONS
Each of the five fundamental canons has additional, specific canons of conduct associated with it. In
the next section, each of the canons of conduct will be listed for your information. Each canon has
key words and phrases that are integral to the meaning of the canon. These words and phrases are
highlighted and underlined to draw your attention to them. As you consider each canon of conduct
think about the significance to the expected professional behaviour with these words in mind.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 1:
1.
Each practitioner shall obey the laws of the land.
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
1.1 obey the laws of the land;
1.2 be open and honest when engaged as an expert witness and give
opinions conscientiously, only after an adequate study of the matter
under review; and
1.3 make responsible provision to comply with statutes, regulations,
standards, codes, by-laws and rules applicable to all work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
1.1 obey the laws of the land;
1.2 be open and honest when engaged as an expert witness and give
opinions conscientiously, only after an adequate study of the matter
under review; and
1.3 make responsible provision to comply with statutes, regulations,
standards, codes, by-laws and rules applicable to all work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
1.1 obey the laws of the land;
1.2 be open and honest when engaged as an expert witness and give
opinions conscientiously, only after an adequate study of the matter
under review; and
1.3 make responsible provision to comply with statutes, regulations,
standards, codes, by-laws and rules applicable to all work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
1.1 obey the laws of the land;
1.2 be open and honest when engaged as an expert witness and give opinions conscientiously, only
after an adequate study of the matter under review; and
1.3 make responsible provision to comply with statutes, regulations, standards, codes, by-laws and
rules applicable to all work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
1.1 obey the laws of the land;
1.2 be open and honest when engaged as an expert witness and give opinions conscientiously, only
after an adequate study of the matter under review; and
1.3 make responsible provision to comply with statutes, regulations, standards, codes, by-laws and
rules applicable to all work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 2:
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
2.1 possess the training, ability and experience necessary to fulfill the requirements of any
engineering or geoscientific work undertaken;
2.2 guard against conditions that are dangerous or threatening to health, life, limb or property in
engineering or geoscientific work for which he or she is professionally responsible and notify his or
her employer or client and the appropriate public authority, including the Association, if the
practitioner’s judgement is overruled or disregarded in circumstances that may endanger life or
property.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.1 possess the training, ability and experience necessary to fulfill the requirements of any
engineering or geoscientific work undertaken;
2.2 guard against conditions that are dangerous or threatening to health, life, limb or property in
engineering or geoscientific work for which he or she is professionally responsible and notify his or
her employer or client and the appropriate public authority, including the Association, if the
practitioner’s judgement is overruled or disregarded in circumstances that may endanger life or
property.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.1 possess the training, ability and experience necessary to fulfill the requirements of any
engineering or geoscientific work undertaken;
2.2 guard against conditions that are dangerous or threatening to health, life, limb or property in
engineering or geoscientific work for which he or she is professionally responsible and notify his or
her employer or client and the appropriate public authority, including the Association, if the
practitioner’s judgement is overruled or disregarded in circumstances that may endanger life or
property.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.1 possess the training, ability and experience necessary to fulfill the requirements of any
engineering or geoscientific work undertaken;
2.2 guard against conditions that are dangerous or threatening to health, life, limb or property in
engineering or geoscientific work for which he or she is professionally responsible and notify his
or her employer or client and the appropriate public authority, including the Association, if the
practitioner’s judgement is overruled or disregarded in circumstances that may endanger life or
property.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 2:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are based on sound
environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or argument, or
allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are
based on sound environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable
character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or
argument, or allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a
manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are
based on sound environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable
character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or
argument, or allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a
manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are
based on sound environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable
character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or
argument, or allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a
manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are
based on sound environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable
character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or
argument, or allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a
manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.3 upon becoming aware of any condition or situation that may endanger life or property (whether
arising from his or her work or the work of another practitioner), promptly report the condition
or situation to the practitioner having professional responsibility and to the appropriate public
authority including the Association;
2.4 ensure that designs and work for which he or she is professionally responsible are
based on sound environmental principles;
2.5 not knowingly associate with, or personally endorse, an enterprise of questionable
character;
2.6 not issue statements on engineering or geoscientific matters, or provide criticism or
argument, or allow any publication of his or her reports, or any part of them, in a
manner which might mislead;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 2:
2.7 refrain from expressing an opinion publicly on engineering or geoscientific matters without
being qualified to do so, and without being aware of the pertinent facts;
2.8 seal all plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents which “The Engineering
and Geoscientific Professions Act” stipulates shall be sealed, whether acting in the
professionally responsible capacity of a consultant or an employee; and
2.9 sign and seal only those plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents for which
he or she assumed professional responsibility and which he or she has prepared, or
supervised the preparation of, or review in detail and approved.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.7 refrain from expressing an opinion publicly on engineering or geoscientific matters
without being qualified to do so, and without being aware of the pertinent facts;
2.8 seal all plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents which “The
Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act” stipulates shall be sealed, whether
acting in the professionally responsible capacity of a consultant or an employee; and
2.9 sign and seal only those plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents for
which he or she assumed professional responsibility and which he or she has
prepared, or supervised the preparation of, or review in detail and approved.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.7 refrain from expressing an opinion publicly on engineering or geoscientific matters
without being qualified to do so, and without being aware of the pertinent facts;
2.8 seal all plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents which “The
Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act” stipulates shall be sealed, whether
acting in the professionally responsible capacity of a consultant or an employee; and
2.9 sign and seal only those plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents for
which he or she assumed professional responsibility and which he or she has
prepared, or supervised the preparation of, or review in detail and approved.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.7 refrain from expressing an opinion publicly on engineering or geoscientific matters
without being qualified to do so, and without being aware of the pertinent facts;
2.8 seal all plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents which “The
Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act” stipulates shall be sealed, whether
acting in the professionally responsible capacity of a consultant or an employee; and
2.9 sign and seal only those plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents for
which he or she assumed professional responsibility and which he or she has
prepared, or supervised the preparation of, or review in detail and approved.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
2.7 refrain from expressing an opinion publicly on engineering or geoscientific matters
without being qualified to do so, and without being aware of the pertinent facts;
2.8 seal all plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents which “The
Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act” stipulates shall be sealed, whether
acting in the professionally responsible capacity of a consultant or an employee; and
2.9 sign and seal only those plans and other engineering or geoscientific documents for
which he or she assumed professional responsibility and which he or she has
prepared, or supervised the preparation of, or review in detail and approved.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 3:
3.
Each practitioner shall employ all reasonably attainable skill and knowledge to perform and
satisfy the engineering and geoscientific needs of each client or employer in a professional
manner.
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
3.1 act as a faithful agent and trustee in professional matters for each client or employer;
3.2 strive to maintain a high standard of competence by seeking opportunities to acquire knowledge
of, and experience with, new techniques and developments;
3.3 ensure that the extent of his or her professional engineering or professional geoscientific
responsibility is understood by each client or employer before accepting an assignment;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.1 act as a faithful agent and trustee in professional matters for each client or
employer;
3.2 strive to maintain a high standard of competence by seeking opportunities to
acquire knowledge of, and experience with, new techniques and developments;
3.3 ensure that the extent of his or her professional engineering or professional
geoscientific responsibility is understood by each client or employer before
accepting an assignment;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.1 act as a faithful agent and trustee in professional matters for each client or
employer;
3.2 strive to maintain a high standard of competence by seeking opportunities to
acquire knowledge of, and experience with, new techniques and developments;
3.3 ensure that the extent of his or her professional engineering or professional
geoscientific responsibility is understood by each client or employer before
accepting an assignment;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.1 act as a faithful agent and trustee in professional matters for each client or
employer;
3.2 strive to maintain a high standard of competence by seeking opportunities to
acquire knowledge of, and experience with, new techniques and developments;
3.3 ensure that the extent of his or her professional engineering or professional
geoscientific responsibility is understood by each client or employer before
accepting an assignment;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.1 act as a faithful agent and trustee in professional matters for each client or
employer;
3.2 strive to maintain a high standard of competence by seeking opportunities to
acquire knowledge of, and experience with, new techniques and developments;
3.3 ensure that the extent of his or her professional engineering or professional
geoscientific responsibility is understood by each client or employer before
accepting an assignment;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 3:
3.4 not disclose information concerning the lawful business affairs or technical processes without the
consent of the employer or client, except as authorized or required by by-law or this Code of
Ethics;
3.5 engage, or advise each client or employer to engage, and cooperate with other experts and
specialists whenever the client’s or employer’s interests are best served by such service;
3.6 inform each client or employer of the potential consequences which may result from deviations
from an engineering or geoscientific judgement, should that judgement be disregarded or
overruled by another authority;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.4 not disclose information concerning the lawful business affairs or technical processes without the
consent of the employer or client, except as authorized or required by by-law or this Code of
Ethics;
3.5 engage, or advise each client or employer to engage, and cooperate with other experts and
specialists whenever the client’s or employer’s interests are best served by such service;
3.6 inform each client or employer of the potential consequences which may result from deviations
from an engineering or geoscientific judgement, should that judgement be disregarded or
overruled by another authority;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.4 not disclose information concerning the lawful business affairs or technical processes without the
consent of the employer or client, except as authorized or required by by-law or this Code of
Ethics;
3.5 engage, or advise each client or employer to engage, and cooperate with other experts and
specialists whenever the client’s or employer’s interests are best served by such service;
3.6 inform each client or employer of the potential consequences which may result from deviations
from an engineering or geoscientific judgement, should that judgement be disregarded or
overruled by another authority;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.4 not disclose information concerning the lawful business affairs or technical processes without the
consent of the employer or client, except as authorized or required by by-law or this Code of
Ethics;
3.5 engage, or advise each client or employer to engage, and cooperate with other experts and
specialists whenever the client’s or employer’s interests are best served by such service;
3.6 inform each client or employer of the potential consequences which may result from deviations
from an engineering or geoscientific judgement, should that judgement be disregarded or
overruled by another authority;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.4 not disclose information concerning the lawful business affairs or technical processes without the
consent of the employer or client, except as authorized or required by by-law or this Code of
Ethics;
3.5 engage, or advise each client or employer to engage, and cooperate with other experts and
specialists whenever the client’s or employer’s interests are best served by such service;
3.6 inform each client or employer of the potential consequences which may result from deviations
from an engineering or geoscientific judgement, should that judgement be disregarded or
overruled by another authority;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 3:
3.7 inform each client or employer of any interests, circumstances or business connections which the
client or employer could deem as influencing his or her engineering or geoscientific judgement, or
the quality of professional services, before accepting an assignment;
3.8 not allow any interests, circumstances or business connections to inappropriately affect
engineering or geoscientific decisions for which he or she is professionally responsible;
3.9 not receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, financial or otherwise, from other than a
client or employer, for specifying the use of any materials, proprietary products, processes or
systems for work for which he or she is professionally responsible, without the prior written
authorization of the client or employer for the receipt of such compensation;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.7 inform each client or employer of any interests, circumstances or business connections which the
client or employer could deem as influencing his or her engineering or geoscientific judgement, or
the quality of professional services, before accepting an assignment;
3.8 not allow any interests, circumstances or business connections to inappropriately affect
engineering or geoscientific decisions for which he or she is professionally responsible;
3.9 not receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, financial or otherwise, from other than a
client or employer, for specifying the use of any materials, proprietary products, processes or
systems for work for which he or she is professionally responsible, without the prior written
authorization of the client or employer for the receipt of such compensation;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.7 inform each client or employer of any interests, circumstances or business connections which the
client or employer could deem as influencing his or her engineering or geoscientific judgement,
or the quality of professional services, before accepting an assignment;
3.8 not allow any interests, circumstances or business connections to inappropriately affect
engineering or geoscientific decisions for which he or she is professionally responsible;
3.9 not receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, financial or otherwise, from other than a
client or employer, for specifying the use of any materials, proprietary products, processes or
systems for work for which he or she is professionally responsible, without the prior written
authorization of the client or employer for the receipt of such compensation;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.7 inform each client or employer of any interests, circumstances or business connections which the
client or employer could deem as influencing his or her engineering or geoscientific judgement, or
the quality of professional services, before accepting an assignment;
3.8 not allow any interests, circumstances or business connections to inappropriately affect
engineering or geoscientific decisions for which he or she is professionally responsible;
3.9 not receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, financial or otherwise, from other than a
client or employer, for specifying the use of any materials, proprietary products, processes or
systems for work for which he or she is professionally responsible, without the prior written
authorization of the client or employer for the receipt of such compensation;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.7 inform each client or employer of any interests, circumstances or business connections which the
client or employer could deem as influencing his or her engineering or geoscientific judgement, or
the quality of professional services, before accepting an assignment;
3.8 not allow any interests, circumstances or business connections to inappropriately affect
engineering or geoscientific decisions for which he or she is professionally responsible;
3.9 not receive, directly or indirectly, any compensation, financial or otherwise, from other than a
client or employer, for specifying the use of any materials, proprietary products, processes or
systems for work for which he or she is professionally responsible, without the prior written
authorization of the client or employer for the receipt of such compensation;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 3:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client or
employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client or
employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client or
employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client or
employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client
or employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
3.10 not accept, directly or indirectly, any royalty or commission from any patented or protected
article or process on which he or she holds any part of the rights, and specified for work
undertaken on behalf of a client or employer for the acceptance of such a royalty or commission;
3.11 not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one interested party for
services pertaining to the same work or works, without the prior written consent of all
interested parties;
3.12 not receive any gratuity from, or have any financial interest in, the bids of any business in work
for which he or he is professionally responsible, without the prior written consent of the client
or employer; and
3.13 not accept an assignment outside of his or her regular employment which might interfere with
regular duties, or make use of the employer’s resources or facilities, without first notifying his or
her employer, preferably with written confirmation.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Canon 4:
4.
Each practitioner shall uphold and enhance the honour, integrity and dignity of the engineering
and geoscientific professions.
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
4.1 co-operate in extending the effectiveness of the engineering and geoscientific professions
by willingly participating in the exchange of information and experience with others in the
professions;
4.2 advertise only in a manner that serves the public interest by reporting accurate and factual
information which does not exaggerate, mislead, or detract from the public image of the
professions;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Key Words and Concepts:
4.1 co-operate in extending the effectiveness of the engineering and geoscientific professions by
willingly participating in the exchange of information and experience with others in the
professions;
4.2 advertise only in a manner that serves the public interest by reporting accurate and factual
information which does not exaggerate, mislead, or detract from the public image of the
professions;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
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References
Key Words and Concepts:
4.1 co-operate in extending the effectiveness of the engineering and geoscientific professions by
willingly participating in the exchange of information and experience with others in the
professions;
4.2 advertise only in a manner that serves the public interest by reporting accurate and factual
information which does not exaggerate, mislead, or detract from the public image of the
professions;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
4.1 co-operate in extending the effectiveness of the engineering and geoscientific professions by
willingly participating in the exchange of information and experience with others in the
professions;
4.2 advertise only in a manner that serves the public interest by reporting accurate and factual
information which does not exaggerate, mislead, or detract from the public image of the
professions;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 4:
4.
Each practitioner shall uphold and enhance the honour, integrity and dignity of the engineering
and geoscientific professions.
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
4.3 endeavour to extend public knowledge of professional engineering and professional geoscience,
discourage the spreading of unfair or exaggerated statement regarding professional engineering or
professional geoscience, and strive to protect the professions collectively and individually from
misrepresentations and misunderstanding;
4.4 present appropriate information to the Registrar of the Association if a professional colleague, or
any other person or entity, is believed to be in violation of the Act, the By-laws or this Code of
Ethics; and
4.5 co-operate with Association in the investigation of any complaint or other matter that is before
the Association.
Ethical Canons
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Ethical Canons
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Key Words and Concepts:
4.3 endeavour to extend public knowledge of professional engineering and professional geoscience,
discourage the spreading of unfair or exaggerated statement regarding professional engineering or
professional geoscience, and strive to protect the professions collectively and individually from
misrepresentations and misunderstanding;
4.4 present appropriate information to the Registrar of the Association if a professional colleague, or
any other person or entity, is believed to be in violation of the Act, the By-laws or this Code of
Ethics; and
4.5 co-operate with Association in the investigation of any complaint or other matter that is before
the Association.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
4.3 endeavour to extend public knowledge of professional engineering and professional geoscience,
discourage the spreading of unfair or exaggerated statement regarding professional engineering
or professional geoscience, and strive to protect the professions collectively and individually from
misrepresentations and misunderstanding;
4.4 present appropriate information to the Registrar of the Association if a professional colleague, or
any other person or entity, is believed to be in violation of the Act, the By-laws or this Code of
Ethics; and
4.5 co-operate with Association in the investigation of any complaint or other matter that is before
the Association.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
4.3 endeavour to extend public knowledge of professional engineering and professional geoscience,
discourage the spreading of unfair or exaggerated statement regarding professional engineering
or professional geoscience, and strive to protect the professions collectively and individually from
misrepresentations and misunderstanding;
4.4 present appropriate information to the Registrar of the Association if a professional colleague, or
any other person or entity, is believed to be in violation of the Act, the By-laws or this Code of
Ethics; and
4.5 co-operate with Association in the investigation of any complaint or other matter that is before
the Association.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Lessons Learned
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References
Key Words and Concepts:
4.3 endeavour to extend public knowledge of professional engineering and professional geoscience,
discourage the spreading of unfair or exaggerated statement regarding professional engineering
or professional geoscience, and strive to protect the professions collectively and individually from
misrepresentations and misunderstanding;
4.4 present appropriate information to the Registrar of the Association if a professional colleague, or
any other person or entity, is believed to be in violation of the Act, the By-laws or this Code of
Ethics; and
4.5 co-operate with Association in the investigation of any complaint or other matter that is before
the Association.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Canon 5:
5.
Each practitioner shall be fair to colleagues and shall support their professional development.
Specifically, and without limiting the generality of this statement, each practitioner shall:
5.1 take care that credit for engineering and geoscientific work is given to those to whom credit
is properly due;
5.2 support the standards of the professions by upholding the principle that appropriate and
adequate compensation for all those engaged in engineering and geoscientific work is in the
public interest;
5.3 endeavour to provide opportunities for the professional development of employees or
subordinates in engineering, geoscience and/or related technical fields;
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Key Words and Concepts:
5.1 take care that credit for engineering and geoscientific work is given to those to whom
credit is properly due;
5.2 support the standards of the professions by upholding the principle that appropriate
and adequate compensation for all those engaged in engineering and geoscientific
work is in the public interest;
5.3 endeavour to provide opportunities for the professional development of employees
or subordinates in engineering, geoscience and/or related technical fields;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
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Key Words and Concepts:
5.1 take care that credit for engineering and geoscientific work is given to those to whom
credit is properly due;
5.2 support the standards of the professions by upholding the principle that appropriate
and adequate compensation for all those engaged in engineering and geoscientific
work is in the public interest;
5.3 endeavour to provide opportunities for the professional development of employees
or subordinates in engineering, geoscience and/or related technical fields;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Key Words and Concepts:
5.1 take care that credit for engineering and geoscientific work is given to those to whom
credit is properly due;
5.2 support the standards of the professions by upholding the principle that
appropriate and adequate compensation for all those engaged in engineering and
geoscientific work is in the public interest;
5.3 endeavour to provide opportunities for the professional development of employees
or subordinates in engineering, geoscience and/or related technical fields;
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
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Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.1 take care that credit for engineering and geoscientific work is given to those to whom
credit is properly due;
5.2 support the standards of the professions by upholding the principle that appropriate and
adequate compensation for all those engaged in engineering and geoscientific work is in the
public interest;
5.3 endeavour to provide opportunities for the professional development of employees
or subordinates in engineering, geoscience and/or related technical fields;
Ethical Canons
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Canon 5:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects, practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects, practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects, practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects, practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects,
practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects,
practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Key Words and Concepts:
5.4 encourage qualified employees to become registered as professional engineers or professional
geoscientists;
5.5 not attempt to injure falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation,
prospects,
practice or employment of another practitioner;
5.6 notify a practitioner, as soon as practicable, when giving an opinion on that practitioner’s work;
5.7 not attempt to supplant another practitioner in a particular employment or contract if a definite
commitment has been made toward the employment of, or a contract with, that practitioner; and
5.8 not attempt to gain advantage over another practitioner by offering a gratuity in order to secure
professional engineering or professional geoscience work.
Ethical Canons
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 1: Car Dealership
XYZ Engineering Inc. was hired to facilitate the expansion of Happy Car Motors, a local retailer of a
national automobile manufacturer. XYZ Engineering firm prepared drawings of the expansion and an
engineer in the firm sealed the drawings. The drawings included architectural details, details that had
been engineered by the firm, as well as components with general dimensional constraints and design
criteria.
XYZ Engineering engaged ABC Construction Ltd. to perform the construction of the building
expansion. Construction included the responsibility to fabricate and supply the building components.
The contractor engaged a sub-trade, General Iron Works, to supply the structural steel components of
the building. General Iron Works was provided with the original drawings from XYZ Engineering Inc. to
fabricate the components. The drawings provided geometry and design requirements for the roof
trusses but did not provide any details of the trusses.
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
General Iron Works had a professional engineer employed, Evan Keeled. Evan is a professional
engineer with many years experience in weld engineering and sometimes has reviewed truss designs.
Which, if any, ethical canons have been breached so far in this scenario?
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
General Iron Works began work immediately on the trusses that needed to be constructed for the
Happy Car site expansion. On the morning that work began, Mr. Keeled was in meetings with his
lawyer. Mr. Keeled and his wife were going through a messy divorce that was taking most of his time,
energy and money!
Mr. Keeled assigned the task of designing the truss, producing the drawings, and designing the truss
members to one of the technologists in the shop. He indicated he would review the work and stamp
the drawings at his earliest convenience.
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
At the end of week, Mr. Keeled returned to his desk. There were dozens of emails, and stacks of
drawings to review. While he scrolled through his emails and listened to his voice mails, he began
signing and stamping drawings. They looked like the usual drawings.
Mr. Keeled has now violated a canon of ethics, which one was it?
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Introduction
Ethical Canons
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
Over the next several months, expansion construction began at Happy Car Motors. One Friday
afternoon the roof trusses were installed. In the early hours of Saturday morning the roof collapsed.
No one was injured.
The owners of Happy Car Motors immediately filed a law suit and a team of Structural Forensic
Engineers were hired to investigate the failure.
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
The investigation found the following:
• The roof trusses were not fabricated as per the shop drawings.
• The original roof trusses were under designed.
• The engineer who sealed the roof truss drawings did not perform the design and did not review
the design.
• The person who did perform the design was not a professional engineer.
• The contractor did not cross reference the trusses at site with the sealed shop drawings
• The engineering firm did not cross reference the trusses at site with the sealed shop drawings
The Engineering Ethics Committee was enlisted to determine if an engineer on the project had
behaved unethically.
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Case Study 1: Car Dealership
The Engineering Ethics Committee came to the following conclusions:
The XYZ Engineering Inc. was not charged.
Evan Keeled, P. Eng. was charged with
• Sealed and submitted drawings not prepared by him… Canon 2.9
• Submitted designs which he ought to have know were negligently designed…Canon 1.3
Given the charges, what do you expect the penalty for Mr. Jones to be?
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Introduction
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
Background: Mr. Advocate, P. Eng. is a long-time opponent to fluoridation of public water supplies.
Mr. Advocate is convinced that the potential health benefits to users is far weighed by the potential
harm to the environment.
And so our case begins.
On October 27, several days after returning from a meeting in Smalltown, Mr. Advocate, P. Eng. sent a
letter to APEGM.
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
In the letter he presented the following information:
•
At the meeting, Mr. Bluewater, P. Eng., recommended to the Town that the effluent from their
waste pits at the Nuisance Ground be drained into the town’s sewage lagoon from where it
will drain into the Foxglove River. Currently, the liquid from the waste pits is retained because
of the nature of the clay in which the pits are located. (Mr. Advocate suggests leaving the
liquid where it is currently stored or pump it out into barrels for transportation to a facility
where toxic material is treated.)
•
At the meeting, Mr. Bluewater, further recommended that the pit-effluent be “treated” in
the lagoon before being discharged into the Foxglove River. (Mr. Advocate further explains
that conventional treatment systems do not remove fluoride from the water, and will
certainly not remove other toxic chemicals. )
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
•
Additionally, Mr. Advocate indicated that Smalltown banned the deposit of chemical containers
last year into its dump site. He indicated that the containers are now being thrown into the valley
of nearby Bird’s Wing Creek.
Finally, Mr. Advocate asked that APEGM investigate Mr. Bluewater and his firm. Which
canon of conduct does Mr. Advocate cite as having been violated by Mr. Bluewater?
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
•
Mr. Advocate sent copies of this letter to:
•
Blue Skies Engineering
•
Smalltown Council
•
The Rural Municipalities of Overthere (containing Smalltown) and Bird Wing
•
The Honourable Ms. Sunsky, Minister of the Environment, Government of Manitoba
•
Ms. Carboncopy, Editor, Smalltown Metro Newspaper
If Mr. Advocate is wrong in his accusations of Mr. Bluewater, which Canon of Conduct
would he be violating by circulating this information widely?
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
Mr. Bluewater, P. Eng. responded to APEGM, November 1, addressing the statements in Mr.
Advocate’s letter. In his letter he stated that:
•
Mr. Bluewater was invited to meet with Smalltown representatives to provide comments and
suggestions about upgrading and expanding of Smalltown’s waste disposal site.
•
Mr. Ecofriendly of the Manitoba Department of the Environment, also attended the meeting.
•
Mr. Ecofriendly informed the attendees of the meeting that water collecting at the waste site
could not be discharged directly to the environment (rivers, ditches, etc.) and suggested a liquid
storage pond be built to collect the water for treatment.
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
•
Mr. Bluewater’s letter also indicated that he is aware of Mr. Advocate’s opposition to the
fluoridation of public water supplies. He pointed out the link made by Mr. Advocate between
fluoride in Smalltown’s water supply and other allegations involving town garbage was odd.
•
Smalltown does not allow disposal of chemical containers at its waste disposal site. There was no
discussion of container dumping at the Bird Wing Creek site, as it is operated by the Municipality
of Bird Wing.
•
Mr. Bluewater indicated that his experience in municipal engineering extends over 20 years, and
he has always tried to improve the quality of life and the environment in Manitoba. His work, and
the work of Blue Skies Engineering, is under the Public Health and Environmental Acts.
•
He invites APEGM to confirm his account of the meeting with the other attendees.
•
His letter was circulated to the same people as was Mr. Advocate’s letter
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
Is Mr. Bluewater now also potentially in violation of Canon of Conduct 5.5 “not attempt to injure
falsely or maliciously, directly or indirectly, the professional reputation, prospects, practice or
employment of another practitioner”, for distributing his letter of rebuttal?
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
Also on November 1, Mr. Bluewater submitted a letter to APEGM with the following content:
•
Mr. Advocate circulated his letter of October 27 widely, his response letter was circulated to the
same list
•
Because Mr. Advocate accused Mr. Bluewater of being unprofessional and has been public in his
accusation, and without all facts, Mr. Bluewater asserts that Mr. Advocate has violated Ethical
Canon 5.5
•
Mr. Bluewater requests that APEGM refer this matter to the Investigation Committee.
We now have 2 investigations. What Canons of Conduct has each
member allegedly violated?
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Ethical Canons
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
After many months of investigation, the following results are found by the investigation committees:
The investigation against Mr. Bluewater:
1. After interviewing attendees of the initial Smalltown meeting, all concurred with Mr. Bluewater’s
version of events.
2. Character witnesses indicated that Mr. Bluewater is an upstanding member of the Municipal
Engineering discipline, with a solid record of sound engineering practice.
3. The investigation against Mr. Bluewater did not result in any charges being brought against him.
The investigation against Mr. Advocate:
1. The investigation committee found Mr. Advocate in violation of Canons of Conduct 2.7 and 5.5.
2. The penalty as assessed by the committee was a written formal apology from
Mr. Advocate to Mr. Bluewater, with the letter circulated to all who
received the initial letters from both parties.
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Case Study 2: Whistle Blowing
Mr. Advocate, P. Eng. is a champion of preserving and improving Manitoba’s waterways, especially
through abandoning fluoridation of public water supplies.
In this case, Mr. Advocate was found to have “jumped in” without knowing all of the facts and was
found to have damaged the reputation of Mr. Bluewater, also a Professional Engineer.
Was there a better forum for Mr. Advocate’s environmental concerns?
In the future, what steps should Mr. Advocate take before distributing information?
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Ethical Canons
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
A remote northern community plans on developing a treatment center for youth with snow allergies.
The community engages ABC Project Management Group. ABC Project Management group subcontracts a number of companies to provide drawings and specifications for the architectural,
structural, mechanical and electrical requirements for the building. A structural engineer, Dave
Designastructure P. Eng., is sub-contracted by DEF Structural Engineers & Architects, the company
that is responsible for providing architectural and structural details for the building. ABC Project
Management group coordinates all parties involved including construction on site.
Near the end of the project, ABC Project Management requests completion certificates from all
designers that the building was as per their design as a requirement for an occupancy permit. Dave
Designastructure, who is responsible for structural design and Part 3 of the Manitoba Building Code,
issues a letter of certificate with his seal indicating that the building was constructed per his design.
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
The youth move in. The youth, counsellors, cooks and caretakers moved in soon after the occupancy
permit was issued. Within weeks the tenants and the owner complained about the building leaking
and other problems with the building and had to move out.
The owner fires ABC Project Management Group and hires Home Project Management. The story
reaches the local media and an article about the buildings condition is put in the paper. The Office of
the Fire Commissioner (OFC) performs an independent review of the building citing numerous
deficiencies.
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
Mr. Designastructure cooperates with the owner and Home Project Management group. Mr.
Designastructure visits the site on numerous occasions providing inspection services and
recommendations to address the deficiency list and continues to work with the owner and Home
Project Management group to fix all deficiencies.
After several more site visits by the employees of Dave Designastructure, Mr. Designastructure signs
and seals a letter indicating that the building was constructed as per his design. The result of this
letter was that an occupancy permit was issued. Following the letter of completion, another report
was issued by Mr. Designastructure citing deficiencies in the building that needed correcting.
At this point, the owners of the building and Home Project Management, travel to the north for a site
visit. The building is still in a state of disrepair and is not ready for occupancy. Upon questioning Mr.
Designastructure, the owner learns that Mr. Designastructure has not been to the project site for
many months. The building owners and Home Project Management submit a complaint to APEGM.
What Canons of Conduct would Mr. Designastructure have violated?
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
During the investigation, Mr. Designastructure cannot produce proof, in the form of inspection
reports, photos or travel receipts that indicate that he or any of his employees were ever at the site.
The association informs the engineer of the following findings from the investigation:
•
The engineer issued a letter with his seal indicating the construction met his design but had no
proof of him or his employees visiting the site.
•
The engineer failed to ensure that an appropriate inspection had been carried out before issuing
the letter of certification.
•
The association considers these actions to be evidence of unskilled practice of professional
engineers or professional misconduct or both.
•
The engineer’s action exhibit poor judgement and constitute a breach of fundamental canons 1, 2
and 3, in particular 1.3, 2.2 and 3.1.
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
The following is the recommended penalty:
• Reprimanded for unskilled practice and/or professional misconduct
• Required to pass the association’s Professional Practice Exam (PPE)
• Suspended from practicing for a period of 4 months during which time he must successfully
complete the PPE
• Pay a $2000 fine
• Pay for the associations costs related to the investigation,
approximately $3000.
• The conviction posted in the Keystone Professional and the
Manitoba Gazette.
• The association will also notify other professional associations
of the conviction.
Do you think this was a fair penalty/ What would you change?
Now back to our case.
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Ethical Canons
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Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
Mr. Designastructure appeals the sentence. During the appeal meeting, ABC Project Management
and DEF admit that Mr. Designastructure did verbally inform them that he expected all outstanding
deficiencies to be resolved before the letter of occupancy was issued. Home Project Management
also testified on behalf of Mr. Designastructure’s character indicating his willingness to rectify the
deficiencies. Mr. Designastructure admits that he used bad judgement and asks that the penalty be
amended.
What changes do you think he asked for and why?
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
What changes do you think he asked for and why?
Mr. Designastructure asked that the following two items be deleted from the penalty:
• Reprimanded for unskilled practice and/or professional misconduct
• Required to pass the association’s Professional Practice Exam (PPE)
• Suspended from practicing for a period of 4 months during which time he must successfully
complete the PPE
• Pay a $2000 fine
• Pay for the associations costs related to the investigation, approximately $3000.
• The conviction posted in the Keystone Professional and the Manitoba Gazette.
• The association will also notify other professional associations of the conviction.
Now back to our case.
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 3: Treatment Centre in Need of TLC
APEGM agreed to lift the suspension and remove the requirement to have the conviction published in
the Manitoba Gazette, but maintained the requirement for successful completion of the Professional
Practice Exam.
It is now two years later and Mr. Designastructure still has not written the Professional Practice Exam.
The association informs Mr. Designastructure that he will be de-registered until the exam is passed.
Do you think the association’s latest position is fair? Should the recourse to Mr. Designastructure
be more or less severe? Why?
The case is on-going.
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 4: The Pinto
Until now our case studies have used smaller cases, where one engineer made a poor ethical
decision. Now we will consider a famous case which involved the decisions of many and sadly
resulted in the deaths of hundreds.
This case is about the Ford Pinto car and took place in the early 1970s. Ford executives were anxious
to produce an affordable car that would be fuel efficient. The car had to be designed and produced
quickly to compete with several other models coming mostly from Germany and Japan. Lee Iacocca
was president of Ford Motors.
Iacocca’s directive to Ford’s engineers was to design a car weighing no more than 2000 pounds and
cost no more than $2000.
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 4: The Pinto
To this point in our story, we have no concerns. Design criteria were provided. The goal was
achievable. Here’s where the story takes a turn for the worse.
The extended version of the Pinto’s design criteria, as found in Ford’s “green book” (a top secret
manual outlining detailed production plans for any vehicle production) does not mention safety in
any way. Mr. Iacocca was famous for saying “safety doesn’t sell”.
Production began.
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 4: The Pinto
The first test models of the Pinto were experiencing an alarming failure. Upon rear impact of 25 mph
(40 km/h) or more the gas tank, crumbled, leaked and most often, ignited.
Even worse if the collision occurred at 40 mph (approx 65 km/hr) the crumpling of the rear zone of
the car would cause the doors to jam closed, entrapping any passengers.
As production and testing engineer, using our current Ethical Canons, what would you do?
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 4: The Pinto
The test engineers did in fact notify the supervising engineer – information went all the way to Mr.
Iacocca. At this point Ford chose to do a cost benefit analysis of the situation. Based on projected
sales, projected injuries and deaths, and projected costs due to the injuries and deaths, Ford decided
that the cost of fixing the problem, an estimated $11 per Pinto produced would be greater: they
decided to leave the gas tank as designed.
At this point, what should the engineers have done, given management’s unsafe decision?
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Case Study 4: The Pinto
The Fallout:
Turns out Ford was wrong: lawsuits were much larger than anticipated for injuries and deaths
sustained due to the faulty design of the Ford Pinto. American courts awarded some of the highest
compensation ever seen to victims of the Pinto.
The engineers and management of Ford were not charged criminally for any of their activities. Ford
Motor Company was the first American corporation ever indicted or prosecuted on criminal homicide
charges. The U.S. Department of Transportation ordered Ford to recall 1.5 million Pintos. Production
of the Pinto was stopped.
Case Studies
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
Ethical vs. Moral Behaviour
Canons of Ethics
Canons of Conduct
Case Study Outcomes
Lessons Learned
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
There are many more topics and discussion points to
environmental concerns, space travel and work.
consider when studying Engineering ethics and ethical
4.
behaviour. Some questions to think about, pose at your
Should the Canons of Ethics be more or less
specific? What are the dangers of each?
next meeting, or discuss with a mentor might include:
5.
Does the movement from regulations to guidelines
in some disciplines of Engineering potentially
1.
What is the role of local association ethics when
affect ethical behaviour? Do guidelines place more
working in other cultures and countries. Consider
or less onus on the Engineer to behave ethically?
the role of bribery in some countries.
2.
The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer: does your
association’s Code of Ethics adequately represent
the oath?
3.
What are other areas of practice that might be
included in the Canons of Ethics? Consider cloning,
Further Discussion
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
•
Andrews, G. C., 2005. Canadian Professional Engineering and Geoscience: Practice and Ethics.
Toronto: Nelson, a division of Thomson Canada.
•
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of the Province of Manitoba, 2000. Code
of Ethics for the Practice of Professional Engineering & Professional Geoscience, Winnipeg:
APEGM.
•
Basart, J. M. & Serra, M., 2011. Engineering Ethics Beyond Engineers' Ethics, Barcelona: Springer
Science and Business Media.
•
Cavaluzzi, G. P., 2013. Ethical Decision Making for PEs: Today's Standards and Benefits. on-line:
AREMA Online Seminar Program.
•
Diffen, 2012. Diffen. [Online]
Available at: http://www.diffen.com/difference/Ethics_vs_Morals
[Accessed 16 April 2014].
References
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References
•
The Engineer, 2006. www.engineering.com. [Online]
Available at: http://www.engineering.com/Library/ArticlesPage/tabid/85/ArticleID/166/FordPinto.aspx
[Accessed 15 April 2014]
•
Merriam-Webster, 2014. Merriam-Webster Dictionary, ethics, definition 2b. [Online]
Available at: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethic
[Accessed 16 April 2014].
•
Oxford Dictionaries, 2014. Oxford Dictionaries. [Online]
Available at: http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/moral
[Accessed 16 April 2014].
•
Samuels, B. M. & Sanders, D. R., 2007. Practical Law of Architecture, Engineering and Geoscience.
Canadian ed. Toronto: Pearson, Prentice Hall.
References
Introduction
Ethical Canons
Case Studies
Lessons Learned
Further Discussion
References