Code of Ethics for Florida Engineers
Licensed professionals have a duty to display high standards when dealing with clients and the public. This is especially true for professional engineers, who help design all sorts of construction projects. Schools, gas stations, grocery stores, commercial buildings, bridges, tunnels, malls and residences could not be created without the knowledge and skills of engineers. Engineers are important to society but they are required to adhere to the highest levels of conduct at all times. When they don’t, they can face serious penalties.
Engineers have a code of ethics that they must abide by at all times. They must:
- Prioritize the health, welfare and safety of the public.
- Only perform services in which they are competent.
- Be objective and truthful at all times.
- Be faithful to employers and clients.
- Avoid dishonesty and other deceptive acts.
- Act in an honorable, responsible and lawful manner at all times.
What Does This Mean?
There are many rules that fall under these categories. For example, engineers should only approve documents that conform to professional engineering standards. This is for the health and safety of the public, since a poorly built structure can cause harm to others. They should not aid or abet unlawful engineering practices. Engineers should only take on assignments that they have the skills and experience to complete.
Engineers also have a duty to avoid deceptive acts such as misinterpretation and offering gifts in exchange for work. Conversely, they cannot receive gifts from contractors and other entities they do business with. They also cannot steal the work of others. They must give credit where credit is due.
Engineers should also abide by the highest levels of integrity and honesty at all times. In the interest of safety, they must conform with state laws at all time. They must also continue with professional development to stay abreast of changes in laws and technology.
Engineers have a professional obligation to avoid lying. They should admit to mistakes and communicate with employers if they come across issues or have concerns about a project. There cannot be any conflicts of interest in the engineering field, so engineers cannot take on additional engineering work without first discussing the opportunity with their employers. Engineers cannot advance in their field by using questionable tactics, such as bribery or criticizing other engineers.
Keep Your License with Help From a Tampa Professional Engineers Licensing Lawyer
Like all licensed professionals, engineers must act in an ethical manner. Violating any of the standards set forth for honesty and integrity can result in disciplinary actions such as warnings, fines, probation, license suspension and revocation.
If you are a Florida professional engineer, you need to work tirelessly to keep the license you worked hard to earn. If you are facing an investigation or disciplinary action by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers, seek legal help right away. The Law Offices of David P. Rankin, P.A. can help you keep your license. Mr. Rankin has represented over 100 professional engineers before the Florida Board of Professional Engineers. Schedule a consultation today by calling (813) 968-6633 or filling out the online form.
Resource:
nspe.org/resources/ethics/code-ethics
