Exam NPPE Topic 1 Question 185 Discussion
Actual exam question for APEGS's NPPE exam
Question #: 185
Topic #: 1
Question #: 185
Topic #: 1
A licensed professional working for a large engineering company is responsible for evaluating contractor bids for new design projects. During the bid review process for an electrical switch system, the professional realizes that one of the more promising bids has been submitted by their in-law's company. Which of the following initial actions by the professional best fulfills their duties to the public, their employer, and themselves?
Suggested Answer: D Vote an answer
This is a clear potential conflict of interest (or at least an appearance of one) because a family relationship could influence-or be perceived to influence-the professional's judgment in a procurement decision. NPPE ethics guidance emphasizes early disclosure, transparency, and appropriate conflict management measures.
The best initial action is to disclose the relationship to a supervisor or procurement authority so the organization can decide on mitigation steps (recusal, independent review, altered oversight, or documented safeguards). Option D does exactly that: full disclosure followed by proceeding only under direction (which may include stepping aside). Option A (stepping down) may ultimately be required, but disclosure should come first so the employer can manage the process appropriately and document the decision. Option B is inappropriate because it interferes with a fair tendering process and pressures the bidder; the conflict is the evaluator's, not automatically the bidder's. Option C is insufficient because "being neutral" does not address the appearance of bias and lacks disclosure. Therefore, D is best.
The best initial action is to disclose the relationship to a supervisor or procurement authority so the organization can decide on mitigation steps (recusal, independent review, altered oversight, or documented safeguards). Option D does exactly that: full disclosure followed by proceeding only under direction (which may include stepping aside). Option A (stepping down) may ultimately be required, but disclosure should come first so the employer can manage the process appropriately and document the decision. Option B is inappropriate because it interferes with a fair tendering process and pressures the bidder; the conflict is the evaluator's, not automatically the bidder's. Option C is insufficient because "being neutral" does not address the appearance of bias and lacks disclosure. Therefore, D is best.
by Burton at Apr 26, 2026, 07:04 AM
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