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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?
NPPE Codes of Ethics require professionals to avoid conflicts of interest and, where avoidance is not possible, to fully disclose the conflict to all affected parties. Disclosure allows the employer to manage the conflict appropriately while maintaining fairness, transparency, and public trust.
Option D is the correct initial action because disclosure to a supervisor ensures the conflict is acknowledged and managed in accordance with company policy and ethical requirements. The supervisor may then decide whether the professional should continue, step aside, or implement safeguards.
Option A may ultimately be required, but stepping down without disclosure does not satisfy the duty of transparency. Option B is inappropriate because it interferes with a fair bidding process. Option C is insufficient because neutrality alone does not remove the appearance of bias without disclosure.