Catch the latest news, tips and advice that supports you and Florida Atlantic University in building a culture of research compliance.

April/May 2018

New IRB Training Program to Go Live on Canvas
On June 1, the Human Research Protections Program within the Research Integrity unit, in collaboration with the FAU Center for e-Learning, will release a new IRB training program on Canvas available to all FAU researchers. This program will function just like other Canvas courses and will allow you to go through the steps of submitting to the IRB by clicking through different modules for various components of the process. The program will feature how-to videos, peer discussion boards and live chat options to speak with HRPP coordinators.

Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects 'Common Rule' Postponed
The effective date for the implementation of the revised common rule has been further delayed until January 21, 2019. Research Integrity and IRB offices across the country are working on developing new material and instructional content to comply with the new common rule procedures. Stay tuned.

Safety in Labs Using MS-222
During the recent AAALAC site visit, it was noted that MS-222 was being weighed on bench tops with inadequate ventilation. MS-222 is considered an irritant to the eyes, respiratory system and skin, and appropriate safety precautions need to be employed when weighing it. It is important that those using MS-222 be aware of these hazards. If researchers have questions or need additional guidance, they can reach out to the Research Integrity office or Environmental Health and Safety for assistance.

Updates to the IRB Application
Outlined below are changes we've made to better assist the needs of our researchers and allow for appropriate review. 

1. In item #2, please inform us of the type of study being submitted, indicating whether it is faculty research, or student research such as a thesis, dissertation, etc.

2. It is essential to indicate in question 7a whether the study will be involved in new data collection or whether it will be using existing data or specimens. This question guides the IRB in determining the appropriate category and level of review.

Signatures for Legally Binding Contractual Agreements
Florida Atlantic University has a Signature Authority policy (Policy No. 11.1). "The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidelines regarding the authority to sign contracts, agreements, letters of understanding, and other documents or contracts regarding legal assurances, commitments, and obligations on behalf of Florida Atlantic University." Under this policy, the Vice President for Research, or designee(s), is authorized to approve and execute all contracts within his or her area of supervision. Learn more here.

Recently Approved Human Subjects Research Studies
Research Integrity congratulates all of the new human subject research submissions that were approved by the IRB in April. The Human Research Protections Program staff is here to help if you have questions as research gets underway.

If you're looking for opportunities to collaborate on research, check out studies at FAU  here.

Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) - Safety Corner
In partnership with the Environmental Health & Safety Office (EH&S) we are now featuring the EH&S Safety Corner with periodical updates from environmental health and safety officials. Please contact EH&S Director, Wendy Ash Graves, at 561-297-3106 or [email protected] for more information on safety updates. 

Research lab personnel should be aware of the Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment Policy now in effect.  Area supervisors, principal investigators, and building owners should ensure that the eyewashes in their areas are activated once a week for a short period of time. To activate, turn on the eyewash station for 10 seconds, or until the water runs clear. Be sure to capture the effluent, or run it to a drain.  For guidance, or to schedule a training trip to your site, contact Environmental Health and Safety. To view the policy, click here
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