Code of Ethics

Topic 2

Code of Ethics

• A basic set of values and behaviors that are intended to be embraced by users, so they conduct themselves responsibly, in an irreproachable manner, with honor and integrity.

• Typically based on simple concepts that are of value to society, promote good behavior, foster trust, and result in respect of one another.

• Should be easy to understand and written in general terms so it can be applied to every situation.

Why do you need code of Ethics?

• Serves as a reference from moral guidelines

• Used to inspire members to be ethical in their everyday pursuits

• Define the moral aspects of being a professional and serves as a checklist of good behavior and desired attributes

• Will raise consciousness and awareness of the moral obligations of a professional.

• Can serve as the basis of discipline for undesirable behavior

• Can be used as a resource when one is faced with a situation that involves moral perplexity or uncertainty

• Sets a standard for professional behavior bound by the code that colleagues, the public, clients and employees can expect.

Principles

• Broad philosophical commitments that express the core values of the civil engineering profession.

• They describe why civil engineers must act ethically— the mindset, intent, and professional ideals behind ethical behavior.

Canon

• Specific rules of conduct that civil engineers must follow in practice.

• They describe how civil engineers must behave— the actions, duties, and professional obligations required in real situations.

Principles and Canons

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

Civil Engineers uphold and advance the integrity, honor and dignity of the civil engineering profession by:

1. Using their knowledge and skill for the enhancement of human welfare and the environment.

2. Being honest and impartial and serving with fidelity the public, their employers/employees and clients.

3. Striving to increase the competence and prestige of the civil engineering profession

4. Supporting the professional and technical societies of their disciplines.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

1. Use knowledge and skill for human welfare & the environment

Engineering exist to protect life, property and nature

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

2. Be honest, impartial, and serve with fidelity

Integrity is non-negotiable in all professional dealings

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

3. Increase Competence, & prestige of the proffesion

Civil engineering must continuously evolve and uphold high standard

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

4. Support professional & techincal societies

The profession grows through collective effort and collaboration

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

1. Hold Safety Paramount

Civil Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public and shall strive to comply with the principles of sustainable development in the performance of their duties.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

2. Service with Competence

Civil Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

3. Issue True Statements

Civil Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

4. Act as Faithful Agent

Civil Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees and shall avoid conflicts of interest.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

5. Reputation by Merit

Civil Engineers shall build their professional reputation on the merit of their services and shall not compete unfairly with othersF

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

6. Uphold Professional Honor

Civil Engineers shall act in such a manner as to uphold and enhance the honor, integrity, and dignity of the civil engineering profession.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

7. Continue Professional Development

Civil Engineers shall continue their professional development throughout their careers and shall provide opportunities for the professional development of those civil engineers under their supervision.

FUNDAMENTAL CANONS

Summary

Civil engineering is more than calculations and structures—it is a commitment to protect lives, serve communities, and uphold the highest standards of integrity. The Code of Ethics reminds us that every decision we make carries real impact. By prioritizing safety, practicing within our competence, speaking truthfully, acting with loyalty, competing fairly, honoring our profession, and continuously improving ourselves, we strengthen not only our careers but the entire civil engineering community. Ethical practice is not an option—it is the foundation of public trust and the legacy we leave for future generations.