Ethics and Professional Practice Flashcards

According to the NSPE Code of Ethics, an engineer's foremost professional obligation is to:

Answer: Hold public safety, health, and welfare paramount

The fundamental canon of the NSPE Code of Ethics requires engineers to hold public safety, health, and welfare above all other obligations.

An engineer discovers a safety defect in a product after it is released. What is the ethical course of action?

Answer: Disclose it to the employer and, if necessary, to the public or authorities

Engineers must report safety hazards to their employer; if the employer fails to act, the engineer has an obligation to report to the public or appropriate authorities.

The FE exam is required for which professional milestone?

Answer: As the first step toward becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)

The FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam is the first of two exams (followed by the PE exam) required to become a licensed Professional Engineer.

Which of the following is an example of a conflict of interest?

Answer: An engineer approving a contractor's bid when the contractor is a family member

A conflict of interest arises when personal relationships or financial interests could improperly influence professional judgment, such as approving a relative's bid.

ABET accreditation for engineering programs ensures:

Answer: Programs meet quality standards for technical content, professional skills, and outcomes

ABET accreditation certifies that an engineering program meets established criteria for curriculum quality, faculty, facilities, and graduate outcomes.

When must an engineer sign and seal engineering documents?

Answer: Only when they hold a PE license and for work they are competent in and responsible for

A licensed PE may only sign and seal documents covering work within their area of competence and for which they have been in responsible charge.