New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Eng - Board of Professional Engineers
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules – Board of Professional Engineers outlines the specific rules and procedures governing the licensing, conduct, and regulation of professional engineers within the state of New Hampshire. These rules are developed under the authority of the New Hampshire Joint Board of Licensure and Certification, which oversees several professions, including engineers.
Let’s break it down into detailed parts so you understand what the rules generally cover and how they are organized:
1. Purpose and Authority
The rules provide a framework to ensure that only qualified individuals are allowed to practice engineering in New Hampshire.
The Board of Professional Engineers operates under RSA 310-A, which is the statute (law) governing engineering licensure. The Administrative Rules are the detailed procedures and policies that support the enforcement of this statute.
2. Definitions
The rules define key terms used in the regulations, such as:
Professional Engineer – A person licensed to practice engineering.
Engineering – The application of scientific principles to design, develop, or analyze structures, machines, and systems.
Direct Supervision – Involvement and control over engineering work by a licensed professional engineer.
3. Board Structure and Operations
The Board typically consists of members appointed by the Governor, including:
Licensed engineers from various disciplines.
One public member (non-engineer).
Responsibilities include:
Reviewing applications.
Conducting disciplinary hearings.
Adopting rules.
4. Licensing Requirements
To become licensed as a Professional Engineer in New Hampshire, applicants generally must:
Education
Have a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
Examinations
Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
Experience
Complete four years of acceptable engineering experience under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer.
Application Process
Submit a detailed application including:
Academic transcripts.
Work experience records.
Professional references (often from licensed engineers).
Pay the application fee.
5. Continuing Education
Engineers must complete continuing professional development (CPD) hours to maintain licensure.
Typically, this involves:
30 professional development hours (PDHs) every 2 years.
At least one hour must be on professional ethics.
6. Code of Ethics
The Board enforces ethical conduct among licensed engineers. Engineers must:
Prioritize public safety, health, and welfare.
Only perform services in areas of their competence.
Avoid deceptive acts or conflicts of interest.
Be truthful and objective in public statements.
Maintain confidentiality of clients unless legally required to disclose.
Violations of ethics can lead to disciplinary actions such as:
License suspension or revocation.
Fines.
Reprimands or mandatory education.
7. Disciplinary Actions
The Board investigates complaints of:
Misconduct.
Incompetence.
Unlicensed practice.
Process includes:
Written complaint.
Investigation and possible hearing.
Final decision by the Board (may include penalties).
8. Renewals and Reinstatement
Licenses must be renewed biennially.
Late renewal may incur additional fees.
Lapsed licenses require:
Proof of continued education.
Explanation for the lapse.
Possibly re-examination or re-application.
9. Seals and Documents
Licensed engineers must:
Use a professional seal (embossed or electronic) on plans and documents.
Only seal work that they have personally prepared or directly supervised.
Unauthorized use of a seal is a serious violation.
10. Rulemaking Procedures
The Board may propose rule changes to adapt to industry changes or public needs.
Rule changes follow a public process, often including:
Public notice.
Hearings.
Input from stakeholders.
Approval by the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR).
Summary
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules for the Board of Professional Engineers ensures that engineering services in the state are carried out competently, ethically, and with public safety as the top priority. The rules establish standards for licensure, conduct, education, and enforcement. They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the engineering profession in New Hampshire.
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