Blowing the Whistle: Responsibilities Under IET’s Rules of Conduct
Whistleblowing emerges as a pivotal mechanism within engineering projects, such as the Micromouse competition, where innovation and safety converge. The complexities inherent in designing autonomous robots demand unwavering ethical standards. In this setting, what measures can we implement to ensure that potential risks or ethical breaches are swiftly addressed? The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) (2024) provides a robust framework through its Rules of Conduct, which mandate members to report any suspected wrongdoing that jeopardizes public safety or breaches professional integrity.
Consider a scenario within a university setting, where a team develops a Micromouse robot. If a team member identifies a critical flaw in the robot’s navigation algorithm that could lead to unsafe operations, the obligation to raise this concern becomes paramount. The IET’s (n.d.) guidance on whistleblowing emphasizes the necessity for members to act when faced with such dilemmas. Failure to report such discrepancies not only endangers public trust but also puts the very essence of the engineering profession at risk.
How can teams foster an environment where whistleblowing is not stigmatized but rather viewed as a civic duty? Establishing open dialogues about ethical concerns, coupled with the integration of the IET’s Rules of Conduct (2024) in project frameworks, can create a culture of accountability. Fostering an environment where team members can express their concerns without fear of repercussions aligns with the IET’s obligation to maintain the profession’s dignity and reputation.
As future engineers, our commitment to ethical practices will shape the trajectory of technological advancements. In projects like Micromouse, let us champion the principles outlined by the IET, ensuring that our creations not only excel in performance but also adhere to the highest ethical standards. What steps will you take to promote whistleblowing as a vital aspect of your engineering practice?
Ethics of autonomous vehicles
A complicated network of ethical and legal problems is brought forth by the development of autonomous automobiles. Companies must deal with complex legal and ethical frameworks as they develop self-driving cars in order to maintain public safety, accountability, and trust in society. Important information about these issues is provided by the UK Law Commission and the British Standards Institution (BSI). To comply with developing regulations and best practices, how can manufacturers incorporate these ideas into their design processes?
A systematic approach for finding and minimizing moral risks in autonomous systems is provided by the BSI Ethics of Robots and Robotic Devices. To avoid unexpected harm, this standard puts an intense focus on transparency, human surveillance, and risk evaluation. For instance, when an autonomous car has to choose between several possible risks, it promotes clear decision-making procedures. Following these instructions ensures that manufacturers create vehicles that put human safety first while following moral principles.
Similarly, the Automated Cars Act 2024, which creates a legal foundation for self-driving technology in the UK, was introduced as a result of the Law Commission’s consultation on automated cars. To create a trustworthy and environmentally friendly future for self-driving technology, designers, engineers, and regulators must work together as the car industry transitions to widespread autonomy.
References
British Standards Institution. (2016). BSI 8611: Ethics of Robots and Robotic Devices. Retrieved March 5, 2025, from https://bsol.bsigroup.com
Law Commission. (2024). Automated Vehicles Act 2024. Retrieved March 5, 2025, from https://lawcom.gov.uk/project/automated-vehicles/
Institution of Engineering and Technology. (2024). IET’s rules of conduct. Retrieved February 27, 2025, from https://www.theiet.org/about/governance/rules-of-conduct
Institution of Engineering and Technology. (n.d.). Whistleblowing: Guidance for members. Retrieved February 27, 2025, from https://www.theiet.org/membership/professionalism-and-ethics/professional-ethics-resources/whistleblowing-guidance-for-members