The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors

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Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice

PREAMBLE

Members of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® must be persons of integrity, who conduct business in a professional, ethical manner. Members shall not violate or attempt to violate the Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice, or knowingly assist or induce others to do so. Members shall be dedicated to the preservation of life and property in the marine environment.

1. STRIVE TO ENHANCE THE PROFESSION OF MARINE SURVEYING

The surveyor will:

  • Be competent, prompt, diligent and demonstrate respect for the survey profession. (Competence requires knowledge, skill, thoughtfulness, and preparation reasonably necessary for the assignment).
  • Enjoy a favorable reputation within the local business community.
  • Cooperate in developing the marine surveying profession by:
  • Contributing one’s skill and knowledge to further the profession’s commitment to serving the public.
  • Exchanging general information with peers and associates.
  • Contributing to the work of technical societies, regulatory agencies, and specialized professional education.

2. MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE THEIR PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE

The surveyor will participate in continuing education as required by the rules of the Society.

3. CONDUCT THEIR BUSINESS IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER

The surveyor will:

  • Accept only assignments that can be completed with professional competence.
  • Advertise only in a dignified manner, being careful to avoid misleading statements.
  • Respect the confidential nature of marine surveying.

4. MAINTAIN INDEPENDENCE, INTEGRITY & OBJECTIVITY

The surveyor will:

  • When representing the client: endeavor to present facts and opinions without prejudice.
  • Refrain from suppressing, over-emphasizing or manipulating facts.
  • Set fees based on work performed for a client and avoid any form of compensation that could be perceived as corrupting judgment.

5. AVOID PREJUDICE AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The surveyor will:

  • Avoid assignments that would create a conflict of interest.Inform the client of any business connection, interest or affiliation that might influence
  • Inform the client of any business connection, interest or affiliation that might influence judgment or impair the disinterested nature of a survey.
  • Accept compensation from more than one source only with the full knowledge of the interested parties.
  • Not make false, misleading, deceptive or unfair statements concerning member surveyors or the surveyor’s services, qualifications or integrity.