Decision Tree for Protection of Human Subjects from Research Risk

Table of Contents

• Graphical Flowchart
• Text Version of Flowchart
• Summary of Codes

See the main index of Decision Trees or Research Using Human Subjects

Graphical Flowchart

Credit: NIAID

Text Version of Flowchart

Step 1. Are human subjects involved? (even if exempted under 45 CFR Part 46)?

• If yes, continue to Step 2.
• If no:
  • The policy does not apply.
  • Human Subjects Code: 10.
  • End.

Step 2. Does the study claim an exemption to regulations?

• If yes, continue to Step 3.
• If no, continue to Step 4.

Step 3. Does the study fit an allowed exemption?

• If yes:
  • Exempt.
  • Human Subjects Code: E1-E6.
  • End.
• If no:
  • Concern. Exemption not applicable.
  • Negative impact on score, bar to award.
  • Human Subjects Code: 44.
  • End.

Step 4. Are these issues adequately and appropriately addressed? Risk to subjects, adequacy of protection against risks, potential benefits of the research to subjects and others, importance of knowledge to be gained

• If yes:
  • No concerns. Acceptable risks and/or adequate protections.
  • Human Subjects Code: 30.
  • End.
• If no:
  • Concerns. Unacceptable risks and/or inadequate protections.
  • Negative impact on score, bar to award.
  • Human Subjects Code: 44.
  • End.

Summary of Codes

• Human subjects protection codes
  • 10—Human subjects not involved (not clinical research)
  • 30—Human subjects involved, No Concerns (or only minor problems)
  • 44—Human subjects involved, Concerns
• Exemption codes: Research involves...
  • E1—Instructional strategies in established educational settings
  • E2—Educational tests unlinkable to individuals, with no risks from disclosure
  • E3—Educational tests on public officials, or absolute confidentiality federally mandated
  • E4—Existing data/specimens, publicly available or unlinkable to individuals
  • E5—Demonstration projects concerning public benefit or service programs
  • E6—Taste and quality evaluation of foods without additives exceeding regulated levels