Changes and Unforeseen Events

Do I need to notify the Research Ethics Board if I want to make changes to an approved protocol?

Any changes to an approval protocol must be reported to the Research Ethics Board. Changes can include:

• cu_people_job_title change
• Adding/changing research team members
• Recruiting participants from an additional source
• Any other changes to your protocol

In all cases, you must submit a change to protocol/addendum request outlining the proposed changes.

Should incidental findings be communicated to participants?

According to the Tri-Council Policy:  Incidental findings is a term that describes unanticipated discoveries made in the course of research but that are outside the scope of the research. Material incidental findings are findings that have been interpreted as having significant welfare implications for the participant, whether health-related, psychological or social. (pg.34)

Researchers are obligated to disclose any material incidental findings to participants.In some cases, incidental findings may be such that they prompt legal reporting obligations (e.g., law enforcement or child welfare agency). If you are unsure how to disclose incidental information to participants or whether your findings need to be reported to the relevant authorities, you should contact the Research Ethics Coordinators immediately for assistance.