Code of Ethics in Architectural Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Code of Ethics in Architectural Practice - Essay Example Through the use of a clearly defined set of ethical expectations on the conduct of architects, the AIBC can define the integrity of the profession of architecture in order to supply the public with credible and competent professionals who all conform to standards of practice. The AIBC (Architectural Institute of British Columbia) is a self-regulated, independent professional organization in Canada that provides entry for architects into their professional careers. By ensuring that the education and conduct of those in the profession of architecture adhere to their standards, the organization can help the public with hiring competent and worthy members for their work. The organization provides a resource for conflict resolution, as well as and advocacy an advisory program in order to service the public for understanding how, when, and why to hire an architect. The AIBC maintains a directory of members which allows the public to hire accredited and responsible architects. In the proces s of defining appropriate professional behaviors and administration of the position of architect, the AIBC provides a code of ethics in order to set standards for performance (AIBC) The Code of Ethics According to Quatman and Dhar, architects must adhere to â€Å"codes of ethics, building codes and professional standards of design† ( 352). Without these standards, the safety of the public will be at risk and the integrity of the profession would be compromised. Architects are required to be licensed, which requires 5600 hours of work experience and completion of the certification examination. The AIBC provides a complete code of ethics that architects are expected to abide by in order to ensure high quality production of work. The code has been released as a PDF so that all members can review and adhere to the structure of the code. The code begins by clarifying that when the word ‘architect’ is used, it should be applied to architects, architecture firms, as wel l as licensees and associates of AIBC. The bylaws of the organization require that a code of ethics be created and that each member reads this code of ethics and takes the following oath: Solemnly do I declare that having read and understood the Act of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia, its Bylaws and Code of Conduct, and having passed the examinations, I am eligible for membership. Further do I announce that I will uphold professional aims, and the art, and the science, of architecture and thereby improve the environment. I also accept with obligation the need to further my education as an architect. I promise now that my professional conduct as it concerns the community, my work, and my fellow architects will be governed by the ethics and the tradition of this honourable and learned profession (AIBC 4). According to the document, â€Å"This ‘oath’ underpins and informs the profession’s fundamental obligations and expectations of its members †Å" (AIDC 4). The reading and acceptance of the code is designed to ensure that all members of the organization, which should include all members of the architect profession, understand their responsibilities in regard to the ethics code. The first section deals with professional engagement. The code outlines the way in which the relationship between the architect and his or her client should be formed. The laws by which