RCIT-14 Research Conduct Policy for Reeves County IT Department

RESEARCH CONDUCT POLICY FOR Reeves County IT Department

Policy Statement:

This policy applies to all entities seeking to conduct non-medical, non-pharmaceutical, or non-cosmetic research activities involving individuals in a Reeves County IT Department facility or program. The guidelines outlined herein establish parameters and limitations on such research activities to ensure ethical and compliant practices.

Guidelines:

A. Scope:

This policy covers written requests for research activities involving individuals in a Reeves County IT Department facility or program. Approval is required for all research projects requiring the cooperation and participation of employees and/or detainees.

- Prohibits medical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic experiments on individuals in the facility or program.

- Non-medical, non-pharmaceutical, and non-cosmetic research participation is voluntary for individuals.

- Employees' participation is voluntary and must occur during regular work hours, with compensation for non-exempt employees.

B. Required Elements of Application:

Every research application must include:

1. Title of study.

2. Principal researcher and research staff information.

3. Endorsement by a recognized research organization.

4. Goals and justification for the research.

5. Detailed research design, including facility resources, sampling procedures, data collection procedures, security procedures, compensation details, ownership proposal, and any other required information.

C. Review and Approval:

Review and approval requirements include:

1. Proof of approval from the institutional review board or comparable research ethics committee.

2. Submission of copies of the application to the relevant detaining authority and Facility Administrator.

3. Facility Administrator's recommendation for approval or denial forwarded to Regional Vice President and Divisional Vice President, Continuum of Care, and the applicable detaining authority.

D. Conduct of Research:

Approved research projects must adhere to:

1. Obtaining signed consent forms from individuals in the facility or program.

2. Assignment of a staff member to monitor research compliance with privacy and confidentiality policies.

3. Explanation of the study to potential subjects and voluntary participation assurance.

4. Maintenance of records and storage of research data in accordance with security standards.

E. Follow-Up Reports on Research:

Reports on approved research projects must:

1. Include a brief report following the institutional phase.

2. Provide a copy of the report upon completion of the entire research project.

3. Protect subjects' identities in results reports.

F. Violations of Research Policy:

Violations may result in discontinuation of permission for the current study and future research. Violations related to criminal offender record information or other Protected Information may lead to civil or criminal liability.