The architectural profession "must redouble efforts" to improve safety and equity in practices, according to the American Institute of Architects, which has updated the rules in its members' ethics code in a bid to end sexual harassment and gender discrimination.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has amended several rules in its Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, which address sexual harassment and gender equality in the workplace, following an increased awareness of such issues in the workplace.
It has also made adjustments to clarify environmental and sustainable procedures. "The architecture profession is at a threshold moment," said AIA 2018 President Carl Elefante.
"The board's adoption of these changes provides us with another step toward ending sexual harassment in the workplace, advancing equity in our profession, and promulgating sustainable practices."
Updates that forbid harassment or discrimination, and call for the provision of fair working environments, come in light of international events like the International Women's Day and global marches, and the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements.
These events in turn caused AIA members to question the organisation's stance on incidences of similar conflict and the industry's provision for female architects.
"I applaud the members who raised their voices to offer these improvements to the code, and the AIA delegates, Board of Directors, and National Ethics Council who acted ...