Nondestructive Testing (NDT)

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Ethics, the moral principles that guide one's compass, is a crucial topic throughout history and more so in today's technological world. As our studies are centered around this, the author will discuss the ethical implications in his profession, nondestructive testing or simply NDT. In this essay, the author will discuss what NDT is, why ethics are an integral part of this profession and the implications a breach of ethics may have. Nondestructive testing, NDT, is the testing and analysis of materials, components, and systems to ensure mechanical and material quality is met without the need for damaging the item. Technology that is used to accomplish this includes x-ray producing equipment, magnetic inducing, electrical conducting equipment, …show more content…

An example of corporate responsibility involves falsifying information by FirstEnergy's Davis-Besse Power Plant personnel , revealing serious infractions and a cover up. Inspections revealed several cracks and defects in critical components. This incident resulted in FirstEnergy being “fined $5.45 million dollars, the largest single fine imposed by the NRC [U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission]. They would eventually pay $33.5 million in fines.” This also resulted in two employees being “fired by FirstEnergy Corporations... They would be the only two convicted of deception charges.” Further, “Geisen [supervisor/co-defendant] would be sentenced to three years of probation with 200 hours of community service and a fine of $7,500. Siemaszko [engineer] would eventually receive three years of probation and a fine of $4,500.” (Nisbet, 2009) Another example to the ramifications of dishonesty in NDT occurred in a court case regarding a shipyard inspector lying about weld inspection certifications on U.S. Navy assets. During the defendant's, Robert Ruks, career at the shipyard, he had certified more than 10,000 welds, some of which where critical to submarine safety. As sentenced for his actions, the inspector was “sentenced to 3 years prison and ordered to pay $654,000 compensation …show more content…

As discussed, NDT is a critical service in today's world, not only by protecting, but by ensuring quality and safety standards. Ethical behavior, as shown, is priority in this profession and can have serious repercussions if not observed. Life and safety is nondestructive testing's number one

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