Introduction to Ethics

Case Study 1
INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS

Soriano, Laurence I.
21-01-2176

March 4, 2024
Engr. Jhun Jacinto
CE Laws, Ethics and Contracts, (CE 342)

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Introduction to Ethics

Table of Contents

Executive Summary.................................. 3
Introduction....................................... 4
Analysis........................................... 5
Alternatives....................................... 7
Recommendation and Implementation Plan............. 8
Conclusion......................................... 10
Exhibits........................................... 11
References......................................... 12

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Introduction to Ethics

Executive Summary

The purpose of this study is to identify the following

ethical standards that have been violated by the action of

Ethan, a registered civil engineer who continuously uses the

licensed structural software from his old company in his own

personal practice and in the new company he is now working

with.

Moreover, the study aims to promote awareness regarding

civil engineer fundamental canons of ethics and recognize

proper manner on addressing Ethan's issue legally and

ethically.

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Introduction to Ethics

Introduction

Ethan was a newly graduated Civil Engineer from

Polytechnic University of the Philippines and passed the CE

board licensure exam the same year. He was recommended by his

former professor to a friend who owns an engineering firm. He

was trained to use licensed structural software which was

installed in his personal laptop for company use. Ethan

resigned from the firm the following year and continues to

use the licensed structural software installed in his personal

laptop in his own personal practice and even in the new

company he is now working with.

The term "structural software" describes computer program

created especially with the purpose of assessing, planning,

and modelling structural components in building projects.

These technologies help engineers use computer analysis and

modelling to ensure the efficiency, stability, and safety of

buildings, bridges, and other structures.

Maintaining the highest levels of ethics, professionalism,

and honesty is essential for civil engineers. Usage of

company's software for personal or outside work requires the

owner's consent and legal authority; otherwise, there may be

legal repercussions and violations against ethical standards.

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Introduction to Ethics

Analysis

Ethan's course of action for using unauthorized software

from his old company violated the two fundamental canons and

could possibly face legal consequences.

Fundamental canons of ethics that Ethan violated:

Canon 5 section H

"Civil Engineers shall not use equipment, supplies,

laboratory or office or office facilities of their employers

to carry on outside private practice."

Canon 6

"Civil Engineers shall act in such a manner as to uphold and

enhance the honor, integrity, and dignity of the civil

engineering profession."

Here are the possible reasons of Ethan for using the

structural software from his old company:

• Personal interest

• Lack of resources from current company

• Legal agreement or permission from the owner

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Introduction to Ethics

The steps to get at the recommendation and implementation

plan are as follows:

1. Identify the problem

Determine the ethical standards and legal terms that

Ethan violated for using the software from his old

company.

2. Understand the problem

To comprehend Ethan’s situation, it is crucial to gather

relevant information, consider different perspective,

and analyze the context.

3. Suggest alternative term

Introduce possible resolution to prevent ethical

violations and legal repercussions.

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Introduction to Ethics

Alternatives

1. Purchase licensed structural software.

2. Request resources from current company.

3. Ask permission or must have legal agreement from the

owner.

4. Use the available licensed structural software from the

current company.

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Introduction to Ethics

Recommendation and Implementation plan

Recommendation

To Civil Engineers,

Engineers should be mindful of and abide by ethical codes to

safeguard the public and maintain professional standards.

Being acquainted with corporate policies and fostering

transparent communication are crucial for preserving

professional integrity and ethical behavior.

To Civil Engineering students,

Civil engineering students should abide by the

fundamental canons and ethical standards of a civil engineer

as practice to cultivate professional integrity.

To Ethan,

For Ethan to uphold the honor and integrity of the

engineering profession, it is imperative that he adheres to

the ethical standards and fundamental canons of a civil

engineer, avoiding any violations.

Enforcing compliance measures is essential to maintain

ethical standards and meet legal obligations within civil

engineering. Ethan and other civil engineers safeguard

against unethical behaviors, preserve intellectual property

rights, and uphold professional integrity by securing proper

licensing and adhering to usage agreements.

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Introduction to Ethics

Implementation plan

1. As a Civil Engineer who continuously uses the licensed

structural software from old company, Ethan should consider

purchasing his own software for him to avoid violating the

ethical standards and legal consequences.

2. To prevent legal consequences and significant penalties,

Ethan ought to obtain permission from the owner.

3. Ethan has the right to use the available resources from

his current company for him to execute the given task.

4. Ethan is within his rights to ask his employer for the

necessary resources to carry out the given assignment or

task.

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Introduction to Ethics

Conclusion

Recognizing the significance of the fundamental

principles of civil engineering serves as a basis for

professional rules and practices that protect public safety

as well as the integrity and honor of the civil engineering

profession. Adhering to ethical codes is essential because it

lays the groundwork for conscientious and moral action. It

promotes professional credibility, upholds a positive

reputation, and advances the general welfare of people and

society.

The alternative of this study aims to address Ethan's

situation, a civil engineer who continuously uses the licensed

structural software from his old company in his personal and

new company's work.

In order to prevent violations and any legal

repercussions, civil engineers and civil engineering students

should adhere to the study's generated recommendations about

the amendment of fundamental canons and ethical standards.

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Introduction to Ethics

Exhibits

The ASCE Code of Ethics places a strong emphasis on the

value of professionalism, honesty, and integrity in the civil

engineering profession. Public statements about their job and

other matters are expected of engineers.

The primary purpose of codes of ethics in engineering

professions is to protect the public and uphold professional

standards. The NSPE (National Society of Professional

Engineers) has created a document called “Ethics” which

outlines conduct expected from any person taking up the

profession of engineering.

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Introduction to Ethics

References

Continuing Education for Professional Engineers PDH-PRO»

Engineering Code of Ethics. (n.d.).

https://pdh-pro.com/pe-resources/engineering-code-of-

ethics/#:~:text=The%20primary%20purpose%20of%20codes,u

p%20the%20profession%20of%20engineering.

Rathnayake, R. (2023, September 8). The Consequences of Using

Unauthorized Software in Engineering

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/consequences-using-

unauthorized-software-engineering-rathnayake

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