Justification |
 • Will the proposed research increase our knowledge about how to improve humanitarian efforts during a disaster? |
 • Could this question be answered in a non-disaster setting?  • Could the research be delayed and still achieve its scientific objectives? |
Vulnerability |
 • Are the potential participants especially vulnerable because of the disaster?  • How do different sources of vulnerability intersect because of the disaster setting?  • Does the research team have the requisite experience and skills to carry out the research, including working with vulnerable populations?  • How can the risk that the research procedures result in additional harms be minimized (e.g. concern for re-traumatizing participants)? |
Safety |
 • How will study data be secured and the identity of participants kept confidential in a potentially insecure or austere environment? |
 • Are there safety risks for research participants and research staff particular to this disaster setting, and are there contingency plans in place? |
Engagement |
 • How can community engagement be optimized for this research?  • Is it possible to partner with organizations that were already working in this setting prior to the current event? |