Waiver of Informed Consent

All research projects are required to obtain written, informed consent from the research participant (e.g. adult aged 18 or older) or the participant’s legally authorized representative (e.g. parent or guardian of a minor child or adolescent). There are a few circumstances where the researcher may request a waiver of informed consent. One type of waiver is allowable when the research is designed to study certain aspects of public benefit or service programs. A waiver may also be granted by the IRB if the researcher can document - in the consent section of the IRB-1 form - that the research complies with the following elements:

1. The research involves no more than minimal risk to the participants.
2. The waiver or alteration will not adversely affect the rights and welfare of the participants.
3. The research could not practicably be carried out without the waiver or alteration.
4. Whenever appropriate, the participants will be provided with additional information after participation.

For more information about the waiver of informed consent please see the Website for Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/ or contact the Bureau or Educational Research at 217-333-3023.