Human Testing

Projects involving human participants must follow Youth Science Canada policies. Students should review the policy, find a scientific supervisor with relevant expertise, and obtain required approvals before starting.

Low-risk or significant-risk?

Low-risk projects involve risks no greater than those encountered in everyday life. Examples on the fair site include some surveys, exercise, food or drink, caffeinated drinks and skin absorption activities. These examples do not automatically make every similar project low risk.

Projects that do not meet the low-risk definition are significant-risk projects and require additional review and approval before experimentation begins.

Consent and documentation

Participants must be told about the purpose and potential risks. Informed consent is required; for participants under 18, a parent or guardian must provide consent. The fair source lists a Letter of Information, consent forms and, where applicable, permission for physical exercise. Keep required signed documentation available for the fair.

Before you begin

• Review the relevant Youth Science Canada policy.
• Consult a scientific supervisor and determine the risk level.
• Complete required forms and obtain approval before research starts.
• Bring requested approval and consent documents to the fair.
• After the fair, destroy documents containing personal information as directed by the source guidance.

Forms and requirements depend on project details. Review the Youth Science Canada policy directory, the full SCRSTF human testing guidance and Safety and Ethics. If uncertain, contact SCRSTF before starting.