Group 4

BSCE-5B
Earl
Jennica
Zimra
Kate
Charlie
Junevine
John Kevin A. Maniti

Reia

D.
M.

Iah

E.
A.
R.
T.

Bondoc
Aguas
Aguas
Bonus
Guiao
Gomez

The Engineer and Professional Ethics

In every profession there is a set of standards of conduct that governs the relationship of a
member with his colleagues in the profession, with his client and with the public or community.
This is known as professional ethics. In its simplest meaning, professional ethics may be defined as
the right application of the accepted standards of right and wrong to the conduct of professional men
in the business relationship peculiar to their professional employment. In other words, it is an
enumeration of principles of right and wrong as they apply to every professional problem or issue.
Its object is to protect the clientele particularly the public from the abusive and oppressive
members of the profession. Transgression of these principles will therefore, make the member liable
for disciplinary action.
MEANING OF ETHICS
Ethics is the science of moral duty or the rules of right living. The term ethics is derived from
the Greek word ethikos and ethos, meaning custom, usage or character. Also, ethics pertains to right and
wrong in conduct; it is the study of the principles of morality, including both the science of the good
and the nature of the right. In its broad sense, it is the science of the ideal human character and the
ideal ends of human action.
PROFESSIONAL ETHICS
History reveals that men classify themselves on the basis of their calling or profession; thus,
engineer with engineers, doctor with doctors, nurse with nurses, and lawyer with lawyers. As they
group themselves into an association, they develop a norm of conduct governing then multi-faceted
relationship. They therefore become responsibly guided by the set of principles of personal
conduct. These sets of principles are codified into the Code of Ethics.
CODE OF COURTESY AND PERSONAL CONDUCT
The following code of courtesy and personal conduct was taken from the paper written by Daniel
Mead, and adopted by the different engineering associations throughout the world, including the
Philippines.
The engineer, like any other professional, should conduct himself in accordance with the
following code of courtesy and personal conduct:

a) The engineer should not take himself or others too seriously. All men are human and
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)

subject to error.
He should cultivate a sense of humor. It brightens life and eases intercourse. Serious
matters, however, should always receive serious considerations and in such affairs levity
is out of place.
He should not fail to smile and use courtesy to all equals and subordinates as well as
superiors. This includes greetings, tone of voice and consideration for the personal
comfort of all who enter his office whether visitors or employees.
He should not criticize any one adversely in the presence of others.
He should not use ungentlemanly language.
He should not fail to respect the authority of others, and the personal dignity of
subordinates.
He should not criticize destructively. He should criticize constructively by suggesting how
the error in question may be avoided in the future.

h)
i)
j)
k)
l)
m)
n)
o)
p)
q)
r)
s)
t)
u)

v)
w)

He should not encourage gossip about fellow workers.

He should not countenance animosities or intrigues.
He should not show partiality, favoritism or injustices in any direction.
He should not let personal feelings govern his action against his better business judgment.
He should not fail to be as liberal in praising good performance as he is in censuring
bad performance.
He should not be little any one, not even the humblest worker with business
judgment.
He should not usurp the functions of others or go over their heads, or undermine the
standing of another, or carry tales.
He should not carry personal dislike into organization work; if he does not like an
associate, he should subordinate his feeling to the general good of the organization.
He should not fail to be generous if he finds himself in a position to criticize or up heave
another department or individual for the turn of the wheel of business fortune may place
him in similar position.
He should not fail, wherever possible, to give the benefit of his thought and information
to others in an organization with which he is connected.
He should not fail, if he must disagree radical ly with an associate, or must "fight" him on
organization, to announce the fact frankly to him first, and fight clean and good
naturedly.
He should not fail, if he must resign from an organization, to do so with due regard for
his associates whose interests may be affected by his leaving.
He should not use merely technical advantage over an associate in an organization. He
should guide himself by sound business principles and spirit of fairness, even under
provocation.
He should not take advantage of double meanings of words, or unsaid things or unknown
fact, or hide behind sophistries or cryptic statements. He should cultivate clearness,
letting all know precisely where he stands. Good strategy in business does not mean
stealth and secrets; speed, analysis, and publicity are better.
He should use correct but simple English in speaking and writing. Proper language is the
mark of education, cultivation, and accuracy.
When work is to be done, he should not delay. Putting off for the future the things
which should be done at once is one of the habits that lead to unsatisfactory service and
failure.

MULTI-FACETED RELATIONS OF AN ENGINEER

The engineer is subject to numerous relations, to wit:
First, he is the agent of the client and bound to perform his duties and functions with
utmost confidence, loyalty and good faith.
Second, he is duty-bound to deal with other members of the profession with consideration
and mutual respect.
Third, he is a citizen of the Republic and therefore duty-bound to exercise his right as such
with due regard for the rights of others.
Fourth, he is bound to treat his employees not as chattels, but as human beings who
deserve respect and dignity.
Fifth, he is duty-bound to deal with contractors with fairness and respect.
Sixth, he, as one of the factors of production, should deal in business relations with
integrity, fairness, dedicated service and mutual benefit.
BILL OF DUTIES OF AN ENGINEER TO THE CLIENTS
Nature of engineer-client relationship. The relationship between an engineer and his client
is fiduciary which requires trust and confidence. It is that of principal-agent or master-servant
relationship. The engineer should therefore act in professional matters as a faithful agent or trustee
for every client.
Commencement of the relationship. Generally, the relationship between an engineer and client
starts with the signing of a contract. Note however, that the contract may even be implied. In other

kinds of profession, such as lawyering, the relationship begins when the client retains the services
of the lawyer. The act of employing such services is known as retainer. This is also true with the
engineering profession.
Duties to his employer and his client. As discussed earlier one of the relations of an engineer is
with the employer and client. The following duties are important for they serve as guidelines on the
manner an engineer will treat his employer and client. Their object is to protect them from the
abuses of an engineer.
a)

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

g)

h)

Duty to observe devotion and fidelity to client's interest. It must be noted that the
engineer as a faithful agent owes entire devotion to the interests of his client. He must exert
his learning and ability in the furtherance of his client's cause. Furthermore, in dealing with
his client, he must observe complete and absolute standards of honesty, fair dealing and
fidelity. Fidelity requires careful and exact observance of duty, honesty and integrity.
Duty to refrain from accepting commissions or allowances. Harmony between an engineer
and client must be preserved. All matters that would cast doubt on the devotion and fidelity of
an engineer must be avoided. Thus, allowances and commissions directly or indirectly
given by vendors, and contractors to an engineer must be rejected;$ otherwise, that would
be an act of disloyalty, for the engineer reneges on his oath to maintain honesty, good
faith, integrity and fidelity to client's interest.
It must be noted that the rejection of favors or offers of employment should be made
pleasantly and without offense. The acceptance of minor courtesies common among
friends can be sanctioned but such courtesies should be returned in kind, and as a rule should
leave the credit on the side of the engineer.
Duty to be candid regarding his financial interest with vendors and contractors. The
relationship between an engineer and client is characterized by strict observance of trust and
confidence. Anything that would, in one way or the other, affect client's interest must be
communicated to him with dispatch. Therefore, as a duty, the engineer should inform his
client if he is financially interested in any vendor or contractor, or in any invention, machine,
or apparatus, which is involved in a project or work of his client.
Duty to inform the client on the adverse consequences if his engineering decision or
judgment is overruled. Since an engineer is armed with the necessary learning and ability,
he must only decide or recommend on the basis of what he believes to be right. A decision
made but not feasible of prosecution should not be taken against the engineer. While he may
be guided by norms of devotion and fidelity, he must inform his client if ever his
engineering judgment is overruled.
Duty to advise the client to engage a specialist or expert. No one has the monopoly of
knowledge. Learning and ability, and long years of experience are not guarantees of
expertise. Thus, a devoted engineer should advise his client to engage a specialist to help him
in a field where the scope of work is beyond his expertise. It is mandatory; therefore, that
an engineer only undertakes assignments for which he is qualified and advise his client to
engage a specialist or expert if by such arrangement client's interests will be served better.
Duty to preserve the secrets of his client. His obligations include not to divulge
information or secrets of his client without the latter's consent. The client has an absolute
right to forbid an engineer from disclosing information concerning the business affairs or
-technical processes made in the course of professional employment. For example, assume
that an engineer works in a company familiar with recently-developed devices and
processes and other trade secrets. He is offered a position with a sky-high salary in another
company so that the latter would benefit thereby. What is his obligation? In the light of
the above duty, he is bound to preserve trade secrets of his client. The exception is, if
there is consent express or implied.
Duty to refrain from accepting compensation financial or otherwise from more
than one party for the same service. The Canon of Ethics for Engineers prohibits an
engineer to accept compensation financial or otherwise from more than one party for
the same service or other services pertaining to the same work without the consent of all
parties. Obviously, the purpose is to preclude the engineer from unduly enriching himself with
fewer efforts, through compensation for the same service or for other services relating to
the same work, unless with the assent of all interested parties.
Duty to refrain from "moonlighting." The Canon of Ethics for Engineers considers it
unprofessional for an engineer to engage in supplementary employment or consultancy
practice without the consent of his employer. Apparently, the situation will create conflict of

interest which will be to the detriment of one party and to the advantage of another. This
principle is buttressed by the American Society of Civil Engineers Code of Ethics which
provides that "Engineers shall act in professional matters for each employer or client as
faithful agents or trustees, and shall avoid conflicts of interests." This particular Code of
Ethics implements the obligation of the engineer to deal with client with complete and
absolute standards of honesty, fair deal and good faith. The exception to this rule is where
there is consent of his employer.
i) Duty to act with fairness and justice. As an ethical guide, the engineer is mandated by the
Canon of Ethics for Engineers to act with fairness and justice between his client or
employer and the contractor when dealing with contracts. It is a truism that the relationship
between an engineer and client is fiduciary. Thus, he (engineer) should conduct himself
before his client, employer or contractor -with candor and fairness. Matters injected in a
contract that would deceive the client or contractor to their disadvantage, must be avoided. Or if
fraud or deception has already been reflected, it is an engineer's duty to inform the parties.
If the client requests changes in the scope of work schedule, etc. during the implementation of
the project, it is the engineer's duty to inform the client without delay of the impact of such
changes.
j) Duty to guard against conditions that are dangerous to life, limb or property. The
engineer who is an authority in the work area should anticipate conditions that would be
threatening or prejudicial to life, limb or property on work under his direct control and supervision.
The Canon of Ethics for Engineers mandates that an engineer "will guard against
conditions that are dangerous or threatening to life, limb or property on work for which he
is responsible, or if he is not responsible, will promptly call such conditions to the attention
of those who are responsible."
k) Duty to refrain from having pecuniary interest in the bids. It: is unprofessional for an
engineer to have financial interest in the bids as a contractor on competitive work for which
he is employed as an. engineer. The purpose of this principle is to avoid conflict of interest.
This may trigger misunderstanding between him and the employer. However, the exception
provides that it is still possible when there is consent of the client or employer.
IMPLIED CODE OF ETHICS FOR CLIENTS
The norms of conduct of clients are not governed by a definite code of ethics. However, there
is a set of implied ethical tenets that ought to be adhered to by clients in their relationship with the
engineer. Knowing his responsibilities to the client, the engineer should also understand the client's
implied code of ethics.
Client's implied ethics. The following are the client's implied ethical tenets:
a)
b)
c)

d)

e)

f)
g)

The client should select engineers on the basis of merit in accordance with accepted
practices.
The client should pay adequate and equitable fees to the consulting engineer for his
services.
The client should accept the consulting engineer as a professional adviser
and extend to him the respect and confidence warranted in such a
relationship.
The client should accept the responsibility for the consequences to be
expected from variations or deviations from consulting engineer's
recommendations, which he decides to make.
The client should promptly provide the consulting engineer with the
information and data that he requires. He should review promptly the
information and recommendations submitted by the consulting engineer.
The client should give credit to the consulting engineer for his engineering work.
The client should respect the consulting engineer's position in relation to
contractors and material suppliers on construction work and not bypass
the authority of the engineer by negotiating directly with the contractor.

Client's responsibilities. The client's responsibilities to the engineer include:

a)

b)
c)

d)
e)

The client should inform the engineer of his previous involvement with particular aspects of
the industry, if any, thereby helping to define the extent of, the client's participation in the
engineering recommendations.
The client should request any information that is lacking to him for a complete
understanding of the work, at any stage of the Implementation of a project.
The client should ensure that he has qualified staff who can competently evaluate the
presentation of the consulting engineer and strike a balance between technical suitability
and eventual cost.
The client should promptly make important decisions on matters that could unduly impede
the project if they were not made on time.
The client should inform the consulting engineer as accurately as possible of any changes
which may affect the project.

TERMINATION OF ENGINEER-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP

The relationship between an engineer and his client terminates in the following instances:
a)

b)
c)
d)

e)

When the client discharges an engineer for want of skill and ability. This is based on the
principle that the client should not be unduly prejudiced by the technical deficiency of the
engineer. It is the absolute right of the client to protect his interest. However, the discharge
of the engineer must not be malicious. It must be predicated on substantial and just basis.
Otherwise, the client will be liable for damages as a result of premature termination of
employment contract.
When both parties voluntarily agree to terminate contract of employment.
When the purpose for which the relationship was created has already been accomplished.
When the engineer dies or becomes insane, except where an engineer is an associate of a
partnership of engineers organized as a legal entity. In that case, a substitute engineer will
take his place. Note that under this category the client employs the services of the
engineering firm.
When the client dies, except where it is agreed upon in a contract that the purpose for
which the relationship was created has to be accomplished up to its termination. It must be
noted that the instances given above are only few. There are other circumstances for terminating
engineer-client relationship.

RIGHT OF CLIENT TO EMPLOY ADDITIONAL ENGINEER

Employment of additional engineer by the client should not be abhorred by the retained
engineer nor should it be considered as a scheme to embarrass him. Furthermore it must not be
regarded as an evidence of want of learning and ability or confidence. This is an absolute
prerogative of a client. The saying that "two heads are better than one" is consistent with this
recognized right of the client.
ENGINEER'S FEES
The right of an engineer to be fully recompensed for his services is based basically on the fact of
employment. And this is governed by a contract, express or implied. Payment for his services is
actually an incentive for greater efficiency for he injects all talents and skills to his work with
proper care. It was opined that if the engineer is not to receive adequate compensation for his work
the threat to him of financial loss will mean that those concerned with the design will have to rush 'up
their work without due "diligence of a good father of the family," the result of which is a poorer
job and a costly one.
An engineer is only entitled to recover from his client not more than reasonable fees for his
services. In other words, the fees must be conscionable; they must be commensurate to the services
rendered. However, it is hard to determine reasonable compensation. One should consider many
factors such as the extent of the service and the professional reputation of an engineer.
In some cases bids for engineering services have to be submitted for public works projects such
as road and dike construction. Naturally, they have to submit to the authorities their prices for
such services.
In other cases, schedule of fees are published for the guidance of all concerned, taking into note
the character and magnitude of the proposed project. In one case, the legality of the schedule of fees
was contested before the Supreme Court. The court ruled that Without the ability to utilize and
compare prices on selecting engineering services, the consumer is prevented from making an

informed, intelligent choice. Primarily, the fee schedule was declared illegal by the highest
tribunal for it prohibits entering into competitive bids.
Factors to consider in determining fees. Usually, the young engineer lands in a salaried
position and considering that he has not yet gained an array of experience he is content with
receiving a low salary. An engineer with professional reputation and vast experience may engage in a
business endeavor as an independent contractor; and therefore receives fees based on the construction
contract. A known engineer, though employed in a salaried position, receives higher fees because the
determination of his compensation is based on factors such as ability, capacity, dependability,
professional standing and long years of dedicated service.
In engineering works, fees for planning and design are governed by many factors, namely:
Engineer's lack of control of the basic requirements that will be presented by the
owner.
b) Basic requirements which are sometimes vague and uncertain; thus, they require
description with particularity.
c) There are owners who change their minds as the design progresses; thus, delaying the
prosecution of the project.
a)

Types of fees. The types of fees offered by an engineer, architect or contractor are as follows,
namely:

a) Lump sum. Under this, the owner agrees to pay the engineer a specified sum of money for
the completion of a project with the engineer or contractor furnishing all the labor and
materials necessary for such project. One advantage of this type is, the owner knows
beforehand how much-the work will cost.
b) Unit price. The owner agrees to pay the contractor or engineer a sum of money for
each unit accomplished in a project. The units of work may be items such as cubic
yards of earth, tons of asphalt, pavement, square yards of concrete pavement, etc.
c) Cost plus a fixed percentage. The contractor agrees to furnish all labor and materials
to accomplish the entire work for cost plus an agreed percentage of the said cost. This
is outlawed in some countries, particularly the United States, because an unscrupulous
contractor may deliberately inflate the construction cost by padding payrolls and
commissions on purchases.
d) Cost plus fee. Here, the owner agrees to reimburse the contractor for specified cost plus
an additional fee which is essentially a management fee to reimburse the contractor for
the costs incurred resulting from the construction of the project.
BILL OF DUTIES OF AN ENGINEER TO THE PUBLIC
The engineer as a citizen. Article 19 of the New Civil Code provides: "Every person must, in
the exercise of his rights and the performance of 'his duties, act with justice, give everyone his
due, and observe honesty and good faith." This mandate on "human rela tions" applies to
every person regardless of his profession. It includes therefore an engineer. In the exercise of his
profession, the engineer should conduct himself as a good member of the body politic with the
above obligation as the guiding principle. His duty therefore, is to render public service, with the
end in view of promoting the general welfare since salus populi est suprema lex (the general
welfare of the, people is the first law.)
Duties to the public. The following duties constitute the norms of conduct that define the
relations of an engineer with the public:

a) Duty to discourage untrue and unfair statement on engineering. Statements on

engineering that are untrue and unfair may cause the public to be mis-informed to their
detriment. It is therefore the duty of an engineer to extend public knowledge of
engineering. Furthermore, he should discourage the spreading of untrue, unfair and
exaggerated statements regarding engineering.
b) Duty to protect the life and health of the public and employees. The Canon of Ethics
for Engineers mandates an engineer to consider the safety of life and health of the
public and employees who may be affected by the work for which he is responsible.

c)

d)

e)

f)

g)
h)
i)

j)

This ethical principle is relevantly implemented by the National Building Code in its
provisions, to wit:
1) All building or structures as well as necessary facilities thereto shall conform in all
respects to the principles of safe construction and must be suited to the purpose for
which they are designed.
2) Building or structures intended to be used for the manufacture and/or , production
of any kind of article or product shall observe adequate environment safeguards.
3) Building or structures and all parts thereof as well as all facilities found therein shall
be maintained in safe, sanitary and good working condition.
The above section is strengthened by Section 1101 of the same law which provides that:
1) No person shall use or occupy a street, alley or public sidewalk for the performance
of work covered by q building permit except in accordance with the provisions of
this chapter.
2) No person shall perform any work on any building or structure adjacent to a public
way in general use for pedestrian travel, unless the pedestrians are protected as
specified in this chapter.
3) Any material or structure temporarily occupying public property, including fence,
canopies, and walkways, shall be adequately lighted, between sunset and sunrise.
Duty to express an opinion only when founded on adequate knowledge and honest
conviction. The engineer may be called upon to testify before a judicial or quasi-judicial
body on any engineering subject. What is only required by the Canon is that the engineer
gives an opinion based on adequate knowledge and honest conviction.
In other words, he has to give a pure opinion evidence. But he could only qualify as
such if he is an .expert, that is, he has acquired specialized knowledge in some
profession, trade or any human endeavor which requires special braining.
Duty to refrain, from issuing statements, criticisms, etc. on matters connected with
public policy. The Canon imperatively enjoins the engineer from issuing ex parte
statements, criticisms or arguments on matters connected with public policy which
are inspired or paid by private interests, unless he indicates on whose be half he is
making the statement.
An engineer like an ordinary citizen may fairly comment; such right is part of freedom
of speech and of the press. But such statement or criticism must be made within the
bounds of professional decorum.
Duty to refrain from expressing publicly opinion without factual basis. To safeguard
the reputation of the engineering profession, it is the duty of the engineer to refrain from
expressing publicly opinion on an engineering subject unless he is informed as to the
facts relating thereto. It is only proper to express opinions on subjects after acquiring
related facts. Otherwise, opinions without factual basis may cause incalculable harm to
the public. It must be noted that one of his duties is to protect the public welfare in
consonance with the Latin maxim, salus populi est supremo lex.
Duty to assist indigent client. In keeping with high standards of ethical conduct, the
engineer is mandated to use his knowledge and skill for the advancement of human
welfare. Thus, an engineer whose skill is needed very badly by an indigent client
regarding a compensation case should not hesitate to extend such assistance. His expert
testimony is the one needed without which the ends of justice may not be served. Note
that assistance free of charge to a destitute client is one of his duties to the public.
Duty to participate in community activities. The engineer should participate in
community activities if his knowledge or skill on any engineering subject is needed; it
is his duty to share the same for the welfare of the community.
Duty to obey and support the laws of the state. The laws of the state are paramount.
Every engineer is therefore bound to support them with principles and practices and
at all times encourage their implementation.
Duty to dissociate from enterprises organized for illicit purposes. The engineer is dutybound to satisfy himself to the best of his ability that the enterprises with which he
becomes identified are of legitimate character. After knowing that they are of doubtful
legality, he should severe his relationship with them the soonest, for engaging in business
contrary to law is inimical to public welfare.
Duty to discourage construction of public works economically unsound for the
community. To preserve the coffers of the government from being unnecessarily wasted,
the engineer is duty-bound to discourage the construction of public works that are
economically unsound for the state or the government. Since engineers employed in the

public service are inhibited from expressing public opinion, those who are free to discuss
are bound to undertake such duty.
BILL OF DUTIES OF AN ENGINEER TO BRETHREN IN THE PROFESSION
Duties to brothers in the profession. The success of any profession depends on the harmony
and cordial relations among its members. The engineer, therefore, should be guided by the
following duties:

a) Duty to uphold the honor and prestige of the engineering profession. Engineers

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

g)

should strive at all times to increase the competence and prestige of the engineering
profession. In the fulfillment of this duty, unethical, illegal or unfair practice of their
brothers in the profession should be reported to the proper authorities for remedial
action. Otherwise, this would tarnish the reputation and anything that would be derogatory
to the dignity of the profession.
Advancement of the engineering profession is, therefore, the primordial concern of the
engineer. He can faithfully execute this duty by interchanging information and
experience with other engineers and students and by contributing to the public
communication media and to the efforts of engineering and scientific societies and
schools.
Duty to take care that credit for engineering work is given to those to whom the
credit is properly due. Anyone who would try to mislead the public that a particular
engineering work has been advanced and initiated by one; but in truth and in fact it is
somebody else's endeavor, should be discouraged. A member of good standing in the
profession must defend the real architect of such engineering work. Otherwise, he would
be doing discredit to the profession and to his brother. The engineer should therefore take
care that credit for engineering work is given to those to whom credit is properly due.
Duty to refrain from directly or indirectly injuring the professional reputation,
prospects, or practice of another engineer. It is highly unprofessional for an engineer
to compete with brothers in the profession. Unfair competition must be avoided for it
will only result in offensive personalities. His conduct with his brethren should be
characterized by fairness, truth and candor. Also, he should not encroach upon the
prospects of another engineer for it is not only highly unethical but also unworthy of the
expectation of the profession.
Furthermore, he should avoid supplanting another engineer in a particular employment
after becoming aware that definite steps have been taken toward the other's employment.
Duty to avoid criticizing another engineer's work. Criticizing another's work in public
is not only unethical but also unprofessional. Criticisms thrown against another's work is a
healthy sign of professional development. As a matter of fact, it is a part of freedom of
speech and of the press. However, the same should be ventilated in the proper forum such
as in engineering societies and the engineering press.
Duty to avoid to compete with another on the basis of charges for work by
underbidding. As discussed earlier, unfair competition between engineers must be
avoided for it would injure the dignity and honor of the profession. Cordiality and
friendship must be the guiding norms of their relationship. To promote harmony and
cordiality among brothers, it is unethical for an engineer to compete with another on the
basis' of charges for work by underbidding through reduction of his normal fees after
having been informed of the charges named by the other.
Duty to dissociate from working with brothers who do not conform with ethical
practices. Duty to uphold the dignity of the profession is the main concern of an
engineer. It is second to financial consideration. Thus, in the practice of his profession he
must refrain from working with engineers who do not conform with the principles of right
conduct. It is his duty to inform the proper authority for immediate action. Otherwise, he
would be doing a great disservice to the profession. Moreover, he would be abetting a wrong
act.
Duty to help brother-engineers. Sometimes there are reasonable circumstances when an
engineer may be called upon to assist his brothers in the profession. An instance takes place
where engineers are under the employ of another engineer. The latter should endeavor
to provide opportunity for the professional development and advancement of the former.
Known as a fact is that salaried engineers receive meager income and sometimes find a
hard time having an opportunity to develop themselves professionally. This is the right time

h)

i)
j)
k)

for employer-engineer to cause some activities for their professional growth and
advancement. This must be given credit and consideration by him.
Furthermore, he should uphold the principle of appropriate and adequate compensation for
those engaged in engineering work especially those employed under him purposely to
maintain the standards of the profession.
Duty to refrain from reviewing the work of another engineer. It is highly unethical for
an engineer to review the work of another for the same client. Exceptions are: a) there is
knowledge or consent of such engineer, and b) the connection of the engineer with the work
has already been terminated. It must be noted that the reviewing engineer should give such
engineer an opportunity to present his reasons for the plans in question. Although the
connection of such engineer with the work has already been terminated, it is still the
demand of propriety to give the engineer who has prepared the plans the opportunity to
explain and defend them.
Duty to sow cordiality among clients or customers. It is unethical for an engineer to create
discord among clients or customers or any individual or corporation furnishing any kind of
public or private service in the guise of greater satisfaction or reduced cost.
Duty to refrain from advertising in self-laudatory language. It is dishonorable and highly
unethical for an engineer to advertise in self-laudatory language. This unprofessional
practice is an affront to the dignity and prestige of the engineering profession.
Duty to defend purely engineering subjects. An engineer responsibly charged of a
work should not permit non-technical persons to overrule his engineering subjects. In this
way, the engineer is adding honor and prestige to the profession.

BILL OF DUTIES OF AN ENGINEER TO HIS EMPLOYEES

In the practice of his profession, the engineer cannot avoid dealing with employees especially
if he is employed as a managerial employee or he himself is the employer. To promote harmony
and cordiality in the working world, it is only proper and fitting to consider some ethical
standards of conduct that have to be assumed by the engineer in relationship with his employees.
Duties to employees. The following code of ethics governing the relationship between an
engineer and employees have been adopted by numerous branches of the engineering profession
and associations.

a) Duty to promote their welfare. The chief engineer or an engineer employing others in

b)

c)

d)

e)
f)

the profession owes to his employees proper consideration of their personal, financial,
and professional welfare and advancement.
As part of their professional growth, he should encourage them to undertake professional
study and initiative. In the future, any promotion in rank or in pay may take professional
achievement as basis.
Duty to commend good work and suggestion. Blunders in the course of work are
sometimes inevitable. Although not serious, the same should be checked immediately.
The engineer should criticize it, but kindly and sparingly. However, if an employee has
done a good job, he must be commended.
Duty to be pleasant and courteous. In the office, the engineer should be pleasant and
courteous to all subordinates. The engineer may only demand respect from employees if
he in turn respects the rights of his employees. It is an elementary rule that "res pect
begets respect." This is based in the Latin maxim, "sic utere tuo ut alienum no laedas."
meaning, so use your own so as not to injure that of another. Simply, it is consistent
with the golden rule, "Do unto others what you want others to do unto you."
Duty to be fair in giving promotions. Whether it is a promotion in rank or in pay, it should
be based only on merit and fitness. To boost the morale, integrity, and dedication to
service of the employees, the engineer should not play favorites. One of the factors that
demoralizes service is the partially of employer-engineer in giving promotions.
Sometimes this problem ignites labor disquietude such as picketing and strikes.
Duty to refrain from "firing" an employee. An engineer who would like to
severe the services of an employee, should do it with "regrets" and personal good
wishes."' This is consistent with good "human relations."
Duty to credit participation of employees in the office's success. The engineer should
not fail to give everyone credit for whatever contribution whether big or small, to the
success of the office. Thus, the use of the word "we" instead of "I" in discussing

accomplishment of the office is highly desirable.

CODE OF ETHICS FOR CONTRACTORS
The nature of the construction industry can enhance and sti mulate national economic
development. There are several organized Filipino construction contractors armed with the
necessary experience and skill, and are in a position to undertake domestic as well as
overseas construction work. As a matter of fact, Filipino construction contractors have been
engaged in overseas work. As a result, they pump in dollars necessary for the
strengthening of the Philippine dollar reserves.
Because of the highly competitive areas of skills and specialization of Filipino
construction contractors, it is only necessary and proper that a set of norms of conduct
governing their relationship be promulgated. The evil sought to be avoided is the
commission of highly unethical practices in the course of their business operations.
Bill of duties of contractors. Article XII, Section 59 of the Rules and Regulations
Governing the Licensing and Practice of Contractors, includes the following duties:

a) Duty to uphold the honor and dignity of the industry. In the course of their

b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

g)

business operations, construction contractors are duty-bound to be fair and honest in

their business dealings. Furthermore, their practice and activities should be guided by
the principles of justice and equity.
It must be noted that failure of contractors to observe these ethical tenets will do
injury to the industry. Ultimately, what is affected is not only the industry but the
economy of the nation as well.
Duty to foster good undertaking. A contractor should conduct himself with honor and
dignity in his relations with his fellow contractors. Moreover, he should cooperate with
them for the protection and advancement of the construction industry. It is highly
unethical to speak falsely or maliciously directly or indirectly, of the work, reputation or
ability of a fellow contractor.
They (contractors) must bear in mind that the death of the industry brought about by such
unethical practices affects the nation.
Duty to render quality service. Clients and owners are entitled to quality service and
faithful performance of the undertaking. It is therefore imperative that contracting should
be carried on a highly ethical level.
If it is the right of contractors to be fully recompensed for the services rendered, it is also
the right of owners and clients to get the quality of service they are entitled to. Otherwise,
the principles of justice and equity be set to naught.
Duty to fairly compete. Unfair competition is a great disservice to the construction
industry. A contractor should therefore refrain from such practice. One malpractice of
contractors is reduction of his charges in an undertaking to underbid after being informed
of the contract charges by another construction contractor. This is highly unethical, and
must therefore be avoided.
Duty to be fair and just to employees and subcontractors. As mandated by the Code of
Ethics, a contractor should be fair and just to his employees and subcontractors. A fair
deal begets honest and efficient service in one's business. Their welfare should be considered with sympathy and understanding.
The above ethical tenet is consistent with the golden rule, "Do unto others, what you
want others to do unto you."
Duty to refrain from supplanting a fellow contractor who is in the employ of the
owner. Any attempt to supplant a fellow contractor who is in the employ of the owner or
to prevent a contractor from undertaking that which the owner has engaged him to do, is a
practice inconsistent with the honor and dignity of the industry.
It is considered highly unethical for it violates the elementary rule of "fair play."
Duty to refrain from advertising firm's business in misleading terms and false
representations. It is not only improper but also immoral for a contractor to advertise his
firm's business in misleading terms and false representations. The hope of evil gain is the
beginning of downfall.
Success is the primary goal of any business undertaking. This can only be attained
through dedicated and efficient service untarnished by scheming and evil business designs.

The death of a business entity may emanate from business malpractices. It can be said therefore that the measurement of success is based on an elementary rule, "honesty is the best
policy."
h) Duty to cooperate with architects, engineers and owners. Engineers and contractors
should cooperate in advising architects, engineers, and owners with regard to the various
costs of alternates while plans are being prepared.
i) Duty to give credit to services rendered by architect and engineer. The services
rendered by architect and engineer are necessary for the complete prosecution of the
project. Contractor should therefore give full credit to the value of their services and
neither undermine nor disparage their functions or usefulness.
BILL OF DUTIES OF AN ENGINEER TO THE CONTRACTOR
In the exercise of his career, the engineer would definitely come in contact with
contractors. His position actually is that of an arbiter or umpire between the client or employer
and contractor who furnishes materials and labor. Since a contractor is part and parcel of the
endeavor, he also deserves fair treatment.
Duty to be fair with contractors. The engineer should act with fairness with contractors.
It is therefore unfair for an engineer to ask contractors to make preliminary estimate of
cost without being recompensed for the efforts expended for such estimates.
b) Duty to issue clear and fair specifications. Specifications vaguely worded to admit
different interpretations in order to favor contractors are highly unethical.
In other words, plans and specifications should be as definite and as specific as possible and
should define the exact requirements clearly in every case. They should not admit double
meaning.
c) Duty to be fair with all bidders. Bids should not be opened until the official date of the
letting. The letting should be conducted with fairness and all bids should be opened and read
publicly in the presence of all -bidders who desire to be present.
Apparently, the evil sought to be prevented here is the premature letting of sealed bids in
order to favor a particular bidder who has given some pecuniary benefits to the one in
charge of the letting. It must be noted that the work should be let to the lowest bidder who
won after all bids have been publicly opened and read.
a)

d) Duty to disallow the use of low bid as a scheme to reduce bidding. Unscrupulous

engineers sometimes employ tactics to reduce bidding price of some favored competitors such
as the use of the low bid, it is thus unfair for an engineer to allow the use of such tactics to
unduly reduce the bidding price to the disadvantage of whomsoever will be the successful
bidder.
e)

Duty to pay just compensation for additional work not covered by plans and
specifications. Additional work furnished by the contractor necessary to complete the
work or to cover the defects in the design, plans, and specifications without however having
been clearly covered by the Plans and specifications should be fully recompensed.
Otherwise, one will be "unjustly enriched" at the expense of another.

PICE (PHILIPPINE INSTITUTE OF CIVIL ENGINEERS) CODE

Fundamental Principles
Civil engineers uphold and advance the integrity, honor, and dignity of the engineering profession.
Using their knowledge and skill for the advancement of human welfare;
Being honest and impartial and serving with fidelity the public, their employers, and
clients;
3. Striving to increase the competence and prestige of the engineering profession; and
4. Supporting the professional and technical societies of their disciples.
1.
2.

Fundamental Canons

1.

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.

2.

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

3.

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

4.

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

5.

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

6.

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

7.

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.