The software engineering code of ethics and professional practice defines eight principles to guide the software engineer. The eight principles relate to the public; client and employer; products; judgment; management; profession; colleagues; and self. The public and judgment principles require the software engineer to "act consistently to the public interest" and to maintain integrity and independence in his judgment. The colleague principle requires fairness and support in dealing with colleagues, while the self principle encourages the software engineer to "participate in lifelong learning regarding the practice of their profession." The client and employer principle requires the software engineer to always work in the best interest of the client and employer. The product and management principles respectively require that software products attain the highest quality and that management promote "an ethical approach" to the software process. The integrity and reputation of the software profession concludes the eight principles of software engineering code of ethics.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, or IEEE, the world's largest professional society for electrical and electronic engineers, has developed a 10-point code of ethics for its members. This code requires them to commit themselves "to the highest ethical and professional conduct." They're required to be honest and to "reject bribery in all its forms." Members are required to assist colleagues, prevent injury to others, treat all persons fairly, and seek, accept and offer honest criticisms of technical work. In decision-making, members of IEEE are required to "accept responsibility in making decisions consistent with [the] safety, health and welfare of the public." To encourage observance of the IEEE code of ethics, an annual IEEE award for distinguished ethical practices was instituted.
The American Society of Civil Engineers, or ASCE, has established fundamental principles and a code of ethics consisting of eight canons. The fundamental principles aim at advancing the integrity, honor and dignity of the engineering profession. The eight canons offer guidelines for implementing the fundamental principles, stressing that "the safety, health and welfare of the public" shall be of paramount importance, and that ASCE members "shall act with zero tolerance for bribery, fraud and corruption." In addition, the canons emphasize that "engineers should be committed to improving the environment by adherence to the principles of sustainable development so as to enhance the quality of life of the general public."
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or ASME, has defined the moral and ethical boundaries for its members in a document called "Code of Ethics of Engineers," as referenced in the ASME Constitution, Article C2.1.1. I. It consists of three fundamental principles and eight fundamental canons. The fundamental principles require engineers to "uphold and advance the integrity, honor and dignity of the engineering profession." The canons represent the highest aspirations of the profession and how to relate to the public and to fellow engineers. For example, it encourages engineers to treat "the safety, health and welfare of the public" as an important goal.