Professional Conduct and Ethics

Definitions

  • "Code:": A set of rules or laws to avoid inconsistency; also, a standard of moral behavior.
  • "Complaint:": A formal written accusation.
  • "Discipline:": Order maintained within a profession; control over members.
  • "Ethics:": Moral principles guiding conduct.

Introduction

  • Architectural practice is both a profession and a business, with high responsibility to the public.
  • Includes professionalism, integrity, competence, and adherence to codes of conduct and ethics.
  • Architects have duties to stakeholders and the environment.
  • Ethics involves regulations (codes of conduct) and guiding principles (codes of ethics).

Foundations of Professional Ethics

  • The Hippocratic Oath is an early example.
  • Key principles: rules for applying knowledge, specialized knowledge requires a code of conduct, distinction between professionals and the public.
  • The oath includes: Do no harm; maintain confidentiality; pass on knowledge.

Responsibilities of Architects

  • Responsibilities: To the public and the environment; to clients; to fellow professionals; to the next generation.
  • These are in codes of ethics and conduct.

Ethical Principles and Regulations

  • Taking an oath is a promise to professionals and the public.
  • Rules of conduct are in acts, regulations, and practice notes.
  • Jurisdictional authorities consolidate rules ideally.

International Standards

  • UIA has guidelines for professional conduct.
  • UIA Accord outlines general principles:
    • General obligations: Maintain competency.
    • Obligations to the public: Respect social standards and the environment.
    • Obligations to the client: Ensure proper service and judgement.
    • Obligations to the profession: Uphold dignity.
  • NCARB in the U.S. has Model Rules of Conduct, covering: Competence, conflict of interest, full disclosure, compliance with laws, signing documents.
  • AIA distinguishes ethics by levels: Canons, ethical standards, rules of conduct.
  • AIBC and SAA have similar codes based on the NCARB model.

Evolution of Codes of Conduct

  • Codes evolve with societal standards.
  • Provinces/territories update rules with societal changes.
  • Professionals must stay current.

Governance

  • In Canada, provincial/territorial legislatures allow self-governance.
  • Associations create and administer bylaws, codes of ethics.
  • Associations maintain ethical standards.

Role of Provincial and Territorial Associations

  • Architects acts and bylaws set criteria for behavior.
  • Licensed architects have rights and obligations.
  • Associations regulate members and practice.
  • Non-compliance can lead to reprimand, fines, suspension, or revocation.

Regulations and Bylaws

  • Divided into: Ethical regulations, regulations regarding competency, administrative rules.
  • Rules regulate relationships with others.

Regulating Professional Conduct

  • Associations have procedures for complaints and disciplinary actions.
  • Valid complaints go to a disciplinary committee.
  • Findings and actions are published to reinforce standards and deter unprofessional conduct.
  • Maintaining currency is part of the professional oath.

Emerging Trends

  • Codes evolve with societal standards.
  • Authorities must be prepared for change.

Social Responsibility

  • CSR is an emerging trend.
  • Professions have obligations to the public good.
  • Public expectations are moving toward social justice and human rights.

Emerging Ethical Issues

  • Three issues impacting practice: Social Clauses, Environmental Rights, Human Rights.

Oaths and Declarations Examples:

  • AIBC Oath: Members declare understanding of Architects Act, Bylaws, and Code of Ethics.
  • NSAA Declaration: Applicants authorize inquiries and agree to abide by the Architects Act, Regulations, Bylaws, and Code of Ethics.

Summary of Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (AIBC and SAA)

  • Based on the NCARB model.
    • Competence: Provide reasonable care, knowledge, skill, and judgement.
    • Conflict of Interest: Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with professional obligations.
    • Full Disclosure: Accurately