JimmyJunior
Electrical
Last year (May, 07) I brought to the attention of this fine forum the fact that I was the only electrical PE in the federal agency branch where I work. The situation is still the same. I asked our legal department about the ethical issues involved and I am still waiting for an answer. I did get a response stating that if I or any other PE in our branch was sued and brought to court the legal department would decide whether to defend him/her or not depending on the value of such a defense to the Agency!!.
We have an extensive electrical system (substations, overhead and underground distribution lines,). A need exists to perform power systems analysis, every so often, to set our protective relays, fuses and other protection system devices. To the best of my knowledge this type of analysis is done by professional electrical engineers because of the liability, safety issues and specialized knowledge that is required. All of the reports I do in this area are sealed and signed by me as a matter of ethical duty.
Recently technicians (high school education and electrical construction courses at best) have been charged with doing these studies. Since life and limb will depend on the accuracy of these studies, it is my considered and professional opinion that this is not only wrong and unethical, but also criminal.
Am I wrong in having this opinion?
We have an extensive electrical system (substations, overhead and underground distribution lines,). A need exists to perform power systems analysis, every so often, to set our protective relays, fuses and other protection system devices. To the best of my knowledge this type of analysis is done by professional electrical engineers because of the liability, safety issues and specialized knowledge that is required. All of the reports I do in this area are sealed and signed by me as a matter of ethical duty.
Recently technicians (high school education and electrical construction courses at best) have been charged with doing these studies. Since life and limb will depend on the accuracy of these studies, it is my considered and professional opinion that this is not only wrong and unethical, but also criminal.
Am I wrong in having this opinion?