Patrick Michael Sails, a professional civil engineer of British Columbia, ordered to suffer a three-month suspension. This penalty follows her unsuccessful attempt to meet the standards of a flood hazard assessment she prepared. The suspension took effect on September 21. It comes on the heels of a consent order issued by Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. (EGBC) on August 11. Besides the suspension, Sails is ordered to pay $5,000 in legal and investigative costs related to the case.
The Department’s investigation found that Sails did not follow flood hazard assessment protocols that were required. He did not do sufficient fieldwork and analysis. This failure of attention made it impossible for him to properly assess the existing flood hazards and risks. This oversight directly caused a negligent breach of three principles of the EGBC’s code of ethics. Certainly, this code was meant to stress the need to prioritize public safety and an enhanced environment.
Sails conceded that he did not have the qualifications, training or experience to prepare an appropriate flood hazard assessment. This assessment served as a key starting point in the ministry’s advocacy. It sought to remove legacy covenant setbacks at a property in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District.
Sails needs to take two flood hydrology webinars, at his own cost. He must take part in an online seminar, under the terms of the consent order. He requires peer review by an EGBC-approved professional engineer. This project review process will take no less than 12 months including reviewing at least two different projects.
Due to his previous incarceration, Sails is barred from many professions. He is not allowed to perform professional engineering work for the purpose of flood hazard determination. According to the consent order, if Sails does not comply with its provisions, his registration with EGBC will remain suspended. His registration can only be restored after he has corrected each cited violation to the state’s satisfaction.
“In the event that Mr. Sails fails to comply with any of the terms of this consent order, his registration with EGBC will be, or will remain, suspended until every default has been remedied in accordance with the terms of this consent order.” – Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. (EGBC)
The EGBC was adamant that engineers needed to be held accountable for prioritizing public safety in model engineering practices. They stated that engineers must prioritize “to hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public, including the protection of the environment, and promote health and safety in the workplace.”
