Engineering Council Releases Updated Whistleblowing Guidance for UK Engineers

The Engineering Council has issued an updated version of its Guidance on Whistleblowing for engineers and technicians, which is now available on its official website. The guidance is given to all professionals in the engineering community who may have concerns about risk, wrongdoing or malpractice impacting others.

Whistleblowing is an important aspect of engineering professional responsibility. Engineers and technicians need to possess the ability to identify, evaluate, and take action as a result of unsafe or unethical practices. 

Being able to speak out freely and effectively, with the knowledge that they would be doing so in safety, is an integral part of upholding public safety and professionalism.

The updated guidance sets out the duties and options engineers have to consider if they wish to raise an issue and where else further information can be sought.

In keeping with the Engineering Council's Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policy statement, the guidance also specifically states that issues are not strictly technical or engineering ones. 

Whistleblowing can also extend to financial misconduct, ethical breaches or misbehaving on the job in the type of bullying, harassment or discrimination of any kind. Such behaviour is not acceptable and should be addressed.

Paul Bailey, CEO of the Engineering Council, commented:

“The updated Guidance on Whistleblowing for engineers and technicians reflects our commitment to supporting all engineers and technicians in upholding the highest standards of professional integrity. When concerns arise about wrongdoing, risk, or malpractice, it is vital that individuals feel informed, supported, and empowered to act. This guidance sets out the issues to consider, the available options, and the professional responsibilities involved – helping the engineering community to navigate difficult situations in an informed manner and in the public interest.“

The updated Guidance on Whistleblowing can be found in full on the Engineering Council's website.