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Protection of Human Subjects

Institutional Review Boards

The establishment of institutional review boards (IRBs) is required by the Federal Common Rule of 1991 (see the information at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services). Researchers must have their research projects reviewed for ethical conduct and procedural appropriateness by the IRBs. A research project can begin only after the IRB approval is granted. Violation of the Common Rule may result in the termination of federal funding to the researcher, and even to the researcher's institution.

IRB’s check

  • risks;
  • selection of subjects;
  • informed consent documents;
  • appropriate measures for safety of subjects; and
  • provisions for confidentiality.

Typically, IRBs conduct three different kinds of review:

  1. Human Research Participant Program (HRPP): experts review applications to determine if they really are exempt.
  2. Expedited: Reviewed by a member of IRB.
  3. Full: Reviewed by the full Institutional Review Board.

For more information on the types of review and the processes check this website: Research at Penn State. Go to the “Types of Review” sections to know more about the different kinds of reviews.

Some surveys, demonstration projects, and observations may be exempt from IRB reviews. However, it is not up to you to decide if your project is exempt. You should ask the Office for Research Protections at University Park. The experts there will tell you if your project is exempt. In the case of class projects, ask your professor.

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