When a professional receives a request to quote from a second party about confidential drawings, proper ethical practice is:

When a professional receives a request to quote from a second party about confidential drawings, proper ethical practice is:

• A. Proceed to prepare the quotation using the drawings.
• B. Request a formal confidentiality release before quoting.
• C. Share the drawings with the second party.
• D. Refuse to quote under all circumstances.

Answer: (B)

The key practice is safeguarding confidential information and getting explicit permission before any disclosure or use. When a second party asks for a quote based on confidential drawings, you must obtain a formal confidentiality release (such as an NDA or written authorization) before producing the quotation or using the drawings. This written agreement defines the scope, purpose, duration, and who may access the material, ensuring the owner's rights are protected and the information is used only as authorized. Without a formal release, sharing or citing the drawings would breach confidentiality and professional duties, potentially exposing you and your client to harm or liability. If you have the proper written authorization, you can proceed to quote within the agreed terms; otherwise, you should refrain until such permission is secured.

The key practice is safeguarding confidential information and getting explicit permission before any disclosure or use. When a second party asks for a quote based on confidential drawings, you must obtain a formal confidentiality release (such as an NDA or written authorization) before producing the quotation or using the drawings. This written agreement defines the scope, purpose, duration, and who may access the material, ensuring the owner's rights are protected and the information is used only as authorized.

Without a formal release, sharing or citing the drawings would breach confidentiality and professional duties, potentially exposing you and your client to harm or liability. If you have the proper written authorization, you can proceed to quote within the agreed terms; otherwise, you should refrain until such permission is secured.