OACETT Internationally Educated Professional Practice Exam IEPPE Question # 9 Topic 1 Discussion

IEPPE Exam Topic 1 Question 9 Discussion:

Question #: 9

Topic #: 1

Mike is an OACETT C. Tech. He works for a municipal government in their infrastructure department. He is responsible for designing and approving the sewage and water management systems in new residential developments. Mike is currently revising the design for the sewage and water management system for a development that is six months behind schedule due to a series ofworker and materials shortages. The developer is also experiencing severe financial pressures, as a result of cost over runs caused by the shortages. As he is revising the sewage and water management system designs, Mike notices a flaw in the water catchment system built around a small lake that is a key selling feature of the residential development. The design flaw means that, while the relevant standards are still met, in severe rainfall events the catchment system will be very susceptible to flooding. The flooding may in turn make the area dangerous for the residents using the park and recreational area around the lake. Mike brings this design flaw to the attention of his manager. His manager then schedules a meeting with the developer to discuss the design flaw. The developer indicates that the design cannot be changed due to budget constraints and existing commitments to the present design. Mike’s manager then communicates this to Mike. He directs Mike to stamp the designs. What should Mike do in this situation?
What is the main issue with respect to professional practice in this case?

A breach of the Act or By-law, other than an action that is solely a breach of the Code of Ethics, or the Rules of Professional Conduct

Conduct or an act relevant to the practice of engineering technology that, having regard to all the circumstances, would reasonably be regarded by technology professionals as disgraceful, dishonourable or unprofessional.

Failure to make reasonable provision for the safeguarding of life, health or property of a person who may be affected by the work for which the practitioner is responsible

Negligence, an act or omission in the carrying out of the work of a practitioner that constitutes a failure to maintain the standards that a reasonable and prudent practitioner would maintain in the circumstances

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Explanation

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The main issue in this case is the failure to safeguard public safety, which aligns most closely with Option C.

Ethical and Legal Considerations:

Duty to Protect Public Safety

According to OACETT’s Code of Ethics, members must ensure that their work does not pose risks to public health, safety, or welfare.

Mike has identified a design flaw that increases the risk of flooding in extreme weather, which could endanger residents.

By stamping the design despite knowing its flaws, he would be failing in his duty to safeguard life, health, and property.

Professional Misconduct Under OACETT and Engineering Regulations

Engineering professionals must identify, report, and refuse to approve any design that poses a safety risk.

Failure to act on this knowledge constitutes professional misconduct and could result in disciplinary action.

Analysis of Incorrect Options:

Option A (Incorrect):

While a breach of an Act or By-law may occur, the primary concern here is the failure to ensure public safety, which is more directly captured by Option C.

Option B (Incorrect):

While approving a knowingly flawed design could be seen as dishonourable or unprofessional, the core issue is the direct risk to public safety rather than just reputational harm.

Option D (Incorrect):

Negligence generally refers to failure to meet standard professional practices.

However, this case is more severe because it involves a clear failure to provide for public safety, making Option C the more precise answer.

References to Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) Objectives and Documents:

OACETT Code of Ethics: “Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public in the performance of professional duties.”

Ontario Professional Engineers Act: Professional engineers and technologists must ensure reasonable provisions for the safeguarding of life, health, and property in their work.

By choosing Option C, we acknowledge that the core professional issue in this scenario is the failure to ensure public safety, which is a fundamental ethical and professional obligation.

Actual exam question for OACETT IEPPE exam by Juno9796 at Aug 3, 2025, 12:00:00 AM

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Chosen Answer: A B C D
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OACETT Internationally Educated Professional Practice Exam IEPPE Question # 9 Topic 1 Discussion

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