In the context of engineering, what is the standard of care?

The standard of care in engineering refers to the obligation of engineers to act with reasonable skill, diligence, and competence in their professional activities. This standard encompasses the effort to meet professional standards that are accepted within the industry—a benchmark for what is considered adequate performance by professionals in similar circumstances. Adhering to this standard implies that engineers must stay informed about the latest practices, adhere to regulations, and ensure that their work is consistent with the expectations of their profession.

In light of this definition, the focus on meeting professional standards highlights the ethical responsibility of engineers to safeguard public health and welfare through their work. This includes considering safety, performance, and adherence to codes or guidelines that govern engineering practices, thereby ensuring that their decisions and designs will not inadvertently lead to harm or deficiencies in performance.