What is a key function of the professional ethics in engineering?

The key function of professional ethics in engineering is to assure public safety and welfare. In the engineering field, ethical standards are critical for ensuring that the decisions and practices of engineers prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of the public. This includes conducting thorough assessments of potential impacts, adhering to safety regulations, and avoiding practices that could lead to harm or unsafe conditions for individuals and communities.

Professional ethics create a framework within which engineers operate, emphasizing a commitment to responsible and sustainable engineering practices. This commitment is fundamental, as engineers have a significant responsibility for creating systems, structures, and technologies that directly affect the lives of individuals and society at large.

While enhancing job responsibilities and promoting fair competition are important considerations in the engineering profession, they primarily relate to the operational aspects of the field rather than the overarching goal of prioritizing public welfare. Increasing company profits, while a business metric, should not come at the expense of ethical standards or public safety, thereby reiterating that the primary function of ethical guidelines is to safeguard the interests of society rather than just the interests of companies.