Experts call for strict enforcement of code of ethics in construction industry

ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a seminar arranged here on Saturday by Institution of Engineers Pakistan, Rawalpindi-Islamabad (IEP-RI) called for strict enforcement of code of ethics in construction industry to ensure public safety.

“If a doctor makes a mistake, one person dies and if engineer commits a mistake it kills hundreds of people,” said key-note speaker Engineer Prof. Rafiq Muhammad Chaudhry while addressing the seminar that was also participated by the Chairman IEP-RI Hafiz M. Ehsanul Haq Qazi, Najumuddin and Shafiqur Rehman. The seminar was part of ‘the institution's Continuing professional development (CPE)’ programme for young engineers.

It was emphasised that there should be a zero tolerance for corruption and malpractices in construction industry. Recent incidents, collapse of construction’s structure of high-rise building led to massive human loss. Ethically, concerned engineer should be made accountable for any such incident. Safety, health and welfare of public should be made fundamental requirements for undertaking any development project, Prof. Rafiq asserted.

He emphasised that the engineers should be sincere to the society, having no compromise on basic design, specification and contract of the construction deal. While undertaking the construction work, the relevant engineers must apply latest professional techniques for achieving better results.

Prof. Rafiz Chaudhry who enjoyed rich experience, working in engineering sector, home and abroad emphasized that the engineering community must keep up dignity and honour of their profession.

He also gave detailed presentation on contract management among the relevant parties. He explained legal and moral responsibilities and obligations of each party in executing building contracts. Each contract should be according to the law of the land, he added.

IEP-RI Chairman Hafiz Ehsanul Haq announced that they would be holding number professional development activities during the year for the capacity-building of the young engineers, enabling them to play productive role in the country’s socio-economic development.