Construction administration, which includes tasks such as overseeing a project’s construction period, is governed by the Construction Management Association of America’s (CMAA) code of ethics. The profession’s historical values are the basis of the code, which are also closely associated with the organization’s strategies. Public accountability, ethical behavior, and professional excellence are all upheld. Construction administrators must be honorable, lawful, and responsible for presenting a positive image in ethical practice. Regard for colleagues and clients is essential because it promotes open lines of communication and better problem-solving channels. Efforts to satisfy client needs are to be consistent with this code.
They must be objective in their services, catering to clients regardless of gender, age, race, marital status, or religion. In practice, administrators must follow the country’s regulations and rules as outlined in the constitution, as well as the requirements of construction codes. Furthermore, when performing various operations, honesty and integrity are highly valued. Such virtues foster a climate of assurance and transparency in collaboration with others.
Conflicts of interest are to be avoided at all costs because they can reduce the ability to complete tasks and meet client needs. In the event of any flaws, construction managers must stay focused and speak up to produce appreciable work. Furthermore, any form of harassment is discouraged because it is seen as a violation that tarnishes the reputation of companies (Foster, 2020). As a public duty, administrators must create a guarded and healthy workplace for employees and other concerned individuals and also promote environmental conservation. With adequate resources, completing projects becomes easier and faster. Construction administrators should limit their services to the extent of their accomplishment and competence for absolute professional excellence.
Recommendations and references must be based solely on personal experience. This ensures high-standard work and collaboration with other members through consultation. They must also use their comprehension, skills, and proficiency to advance their operations and embrace education and transformation to be successful in the future. Sensitive information and documents are to remain protected and only disclosed when required. It is critical to accept responsibility for any flaws or risks that may arise in practice. Corruption through bribery, cutting of bids, cover prices, and unfair wages, among other unethical construction practices, is prohibited by the code of ethics in construction administration (CMAA Code of Ethics, n.d.). Reprimands, warnings, pay reductions, demotions, loss of compensation and other privileges, suspension without pay, and even termination may result from violations of the code of ethics.
A code of ethics has numerous benefits. Adhering to a code of ethics allows a company to comply with the regulations of the country, saving time and money that would otherwise be spent hiring lawyers to handle court cases. Moreover, social responsibility and change are aided by sound ethical principles. Companies demonstrate their concern for society by caring for their employees, customers, and surroundings. This helps them acquire more public support and establishes an order that others can follow.
Construction administration’s code of ethics is extremely helpful in directing logical decision-making proceedings. It helps clients, for example, award projects to worthy contractors who ensure the completion of tasks efficiently. When the price revealed is too low, the contractor may declare bankruptcy in the middle of the project, leaving the client with additional costs and delays. To save money, untrustworthy contractors may use low-quality materials, resulting in the construction of unstable structures.
Contractors should be chosen based on their technical knowledge and ability to perform. Furthermore, it is critical to adhere to employee management, scope, and safety requirements. An honorable construction administrator can apply the code of ethics to determine what resources to use based on the type of building and the location where it will be constructed. Buildings designed in a sustainable manner will help reduce resources needed, improve standards, and encourage the reuse of resources, contributing to environmental sustainability. Other advanced architectural innovations and building technologies can be used to ensure flexibility in project planning, management, and execution.
Corruption is one of the ethical issues associated with most administrators, and more stringent measures must be taken. Bribes and kickbacks are offered to obtain contracts, rig bids, and tamper with critical records. Corruption is incompatible with long-term growth because it reduces the number of projects undertaken and jeopardizes the security of those that have already been established. The code of conduct contributes to the solution to this challenge by fostering administrators’ uprightness and establishing direct and transparent systems. All parties involved are notified of the probable repercussions of extortion and the steps to take if it occurs.
Finally, construction companies should recognize that ethical issues are just as important as financial ones for more durable success in today’s world. The administrator applies ethics to ensure all the employees are productive by working in a favorable environment. Various administrative and management tools should be developed and linked to disciplinary measures to deal with bribery cases. Administrators should be trained as part of a company’s training program to be informed of their responsibilities.
References
Construction Management Association of America. (n.d.) Code of Ethics.
Foster, S. (2020). Management Strategies for Improving Construction Industry Ethics. Walden University, 11-38.