Role of Engineers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Role of Engineers - Essay Example The report also outlines the ethical issues and practices that civil engineers are faced with and how they can deal with these issues. Their problem solving capabilities as well as their capacity to maintain ethical standards are significant in determining their success in the industry. The Role of Engineers With the emergence of industrialization, construction work requires collaboration of engineers from various fields. Each activity in the designing process requires a professional engineer contributing to a working team that develops a drawing to be used by a construction company. The role of mechanical engineers in the construction industry is significant in the establishment of up to standard buildings (Rojter 2010). They play a role in designing, building as well as installation of mechanical systems. They also coordinate development of plans for the mechanical systems, preparation of specifications for air conditioning and aeration in buildings as well as installation of hot w ater systems (Evans & West 2007). The mechanical engineers’ work in the construction industry typically involves bargaining and establishing project contracts and signing agreements with clients after floating tenders. They commission, organize and appraise the work of contractors. Their also work with comprehensive maps and drawings that they develop using computer aided design software. Management and estimation of costs for the mechanical systems in buildings is an important task for the mechanical engineers since it ensures that the project is accomplished within the budget (Mills et al. 2008). They describe specifications for operation and maintenance of mechanical systems in buildings. Mechanical engineers also have a task of decision making regarding expiry of mechanical systems and advising on the necessary replacements. They are required to ensure compliance of the systems with health and safety regulations. In the contemporary construction industry, clients are cons cious of energy and environmental conservation. Mechanical engineers offer advice regarding reduction of green house emissions as well as economical use of energy (Evans & West 2007). The following section outlines what engineers need to practice their profession. Requirements for Engineers to Practice their Profession It is necessary for engineers to possess knowledge, skills and attributes that enhance accomplishment of their roles and tasks. Callister (2006) observes that knowledge in the development, review and analysis of engineering plans and specifications of equipments is necessary for mechanical engineers in the construction industry. They need to be in a capacity to identify errors in drawings or digression from the standard codes. Moreover, knowledge in computer applications is necessary to enhance their capacity to develop drawings and maintain records of their work. Mechanical engineers require wide knowledge regarding the health and safety standards and practices as re gards handling of mechanical equipment. This is necessary because apart from protecting the non professionals handling the equipment, engineers are also safe from harm (Rojter 2010). Moreover, they are in a position to avoid unnecessary legal conflicts that may be costly for contractors and clients. Failure to observe these standards may lead to revocation of practicing license