The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors

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Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice

PREAMBLE

A member of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® must be a person of integrity, who conducts business in a professional and ethical manner. Members shall not violate or attempt to violate the Code of Ethics and Rules of Practice, or SAMS® published Policies, or knowingly assist or induce others to do so.

  1. STRIVE TO ENHANCE THE PROFESSION OF MARINE SURVEYING.

The surveyor shall:

A) Be professional, prompt, diligent and demonstrate respect for the survey profession. (Professionalism requires knowledge, skill, thoughtfulness, and preparation reasonably necessary for the assignment.)

B) Enjoy a favorable reputation within the business community.

C) Cooperate in developing the marine surveying profession by:

  1. Contributing one’s skill and knowledge to further the profession’s commitment to serving the public, in a professional business relationship,
  2. Exchanging general information with peers and associates, without jeopardizing client confidentiality,
  3. Contributing to the work of technical societies, regulatory agencies, and specialized professional education.

2. MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE THEIR PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE.

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

3. CONDUCT THEIR BUSINESS IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER.
   The surveyor shall

A)  Accept only assignments that can be completed with competence and professionalism.

B)  Advertise only in a dignified manner avoiding misleading statements per the society’s policy.

C)  Respect the confidential nature of the marine surveying assignment.

D)  The surveyor shall treat everyone equally regardless of race, sex, gender identification,
sexual orientation, national origin, native language, religion, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. Violation of this ethics rule shall result in immediate termination of your membership in SAMS®.

4. MAINTAIN INDEPENDENCE, INTEGRITY, AND OBJECTIVITY.

The surveyor shall:                                                                                                               

A) Endeavor to present facts and opinions without prejudice.

B) Avoid suppressing, over-emphasizing or manipulating facts.

C) Avoid any form of compensation that could be perceived as corrupting judgment.

5. AVOID PREJUDICE AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST.

The surveyor shall:

A) Avoid assignments and/ or compensation that would create a conflict of interest.

B) Inform a client immediately of any business connection, interest or affiliation that might influence judgment or impair the independent nature of an assignment.

C) Not make false, misleading, deceptive or unfair statements concerning any surveyor’s services, qualifications or integrity.