A Professional Engineer carries a great responsibility to the public because every engineering decision directly or indirectly affects human safety, health, and welfare. The trust placed in engineers is not merely to design and operate systems efficiently, but to ensure that these systems function safely, reliably, and ethically for the benefit of society.
Under the BEM Code of Professional Conduct, the first and foremost duty of an engineer is to hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public in all professional activities. This means that in any situation, public interest must come before personal gain, company profit, or project deadlines.
In the context of my work as Head of Facility in a palm oil refinery and solvent extraction plant, this responsibility translates into strict adherence to safety and environmental standards. I ensure that all boilers, pressure vessels, and solvent recovery systems comply with relevant codes such as ASME, API, and DOSH regulations. This is essential because negligence in maintenance or operation could lead to fire, explosion, or pollution — endangering workers and surrounding communities.
Beyond safety, an engineer’s responsibility to the public also includes environmental stewardship. We must minimize emissions, manage waste responsibly, and use energy efficiently to reduce our environmental footprint. For example, when planning plant upgrades, I emphasize recovery systems and cleaner technologies to align with sustainability goals and public well-being.
Transparency and honesty are also part of our public duty. A Professional Engineer must report any unsafe condition or unethical practice, even if it may be unpopular. Concealing information that could harm the public violates both engineering ethics and legal obligations under the Engineers Act 1967.
Furthermore, engineers must ensure that their professional competence is maintained through continuous learning. By staying updated with the latest technology and regulations, we can make better decisions that serve the public interest.
In conclusion, the responsibility of a Professional Engineer to the public is to act as a guardian of safety, a steward of the environment, and a model of integrity. Our work should always reflect honesty, fairness, and a deep respect for human life. By upholding these values, we preserve public trust and honour the true spirit of the engineering profession.
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