Mechanical Engineering Code of Ethics

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) maintains its own code of ethics as part of its societal policy. The ASME requires ethical conduct, as outlined in the constitution of the ASME, be maintained by its members.

Principles

• The ASME ethical code presents three principles designed to uphold the integrity, honor and dignity of the engineering profession: to use knowledge and skill to enhance human welfare; to use impartial honesty and fidelity in serving the public and employers; and to increase the competence and prestige of the profession.

Quality

• The first three canons of the ASME ethical code pertain to the workmanship and quality of products: to hold safety as paramount, to perform services only in areas of competence and to build reputations fairly and on merit, while continuously improving professional and ethical development.

Relationships

• The fourth through sixth canons of the ASME ethics code pertain to how the mechanical engineer is to deport himself in professional relationships: They must act professionally toward clients and employers, avoid conflicts of interest, maintain complete confidentiality and associate with only reputable persons or organizations.