Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
(OP)
What would be the standard of care in the following case (i.e. what is the appropriate action by the engineer in the following example for public safety, which is a Fundamental Cannon in the Code of Ethics):
Prospective client invites engineer to their facility where structure distress is suspected. Significant(about 1-ft size) concrete pieces falling from structure have almost hit workers on occassion; however, some workers at facility are unaware of danger posed. Client calls engineer to site for evaluation/recommendations.
Upon visiting site, it is visually apparent that significant corrosion of concrete rebar from manufacturing process has caused spalling of concrete and the integrity of concrete is suspect in some trafficked areas. Based on engineering experience, it is believed that similar failures will be realized in the near future and workers at the facility could be seriously injured where exposed to these areas.
The engineer offers a proposal for a phased approach evaluation/recommendations and suggests unsafe areas be cordoned off until an engineering evaluation has been completed.
Client does not respond to proposal and it is unclear how the worker safety has been addressed.
What is the engineer's/companies obligation at this time?
Prospective client invites engineer to their facility where structure distress is suspected. Significant(about 1-ft size) concrete pieces falling from structure have almost hit workers on occassion; however, some workers at facility are unaware of danger posed. Client calls engineer to site for evaluation/recommendations.
Upon visiting site, it is visually apparent that significant corrosion of concrete rebar from manufacturing process has caused spalling of concrete and the integrity of concrete is suspect in some trafficked areas. Based on engineering experience, it is believed that similar failures will be realized in the near future and workers at the facility could be seriously injured where exposed to these areas.
The engineer offers a proposal for a phased approach evaluation/recommendations and suggests unsafe areas be cordoned off until an engineering evaluation has been completed.
Client does not respond to proposal and it is unclear how the worker safety has been addressed.
What is the engineer's/companies obligation at this time?






RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
If you know about it, and in your professional opinion it is a dangerous condition, you need to let your potential client (or not) know that you have a professional and legal obligation to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public (yes, multiple subcontractors on a jobsite could be considered "the public", since not all of them would be working to repair the issues and yet would be exposed to the danger) and as a result you are letting him know that you must report this to the local authority having jurisdiction (typically the building official or code enforcement official).
If he threatens to take action against you if you do this, tell him to that you have no choice....it is your legal obligation and with that comes some legal protection for doing such.
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
Put all of this in writing and send it certified mail.
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
Richard A. Cornelius, P.E.
WWW.amlinereast.com
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
BA
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
In other words, if I was the owner I'd appreciate be given the the opportunity to do the right thing before dragging the authorities into this.
Many times owners will respond properly - especially when they understand they are faced with a liability risk.
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code
RE: Structure Safety for Workers + Ethics Code