The HSRC developed the following decision tree to assist researchers with determining whether their projects will be permitted at this time.

1. Does the proposed research involve essential in-person interactions?  (That is, the research cannot reasonably be accomplished through methods such as phone, video, email, online, etc.

               IF NO, RESEARCH MAY NOT BE CONDUCTED IN PERSON

2. [For STUDENT investigators] Is the proposed research essential to meet degree requirements for a student graduating in Spring 2022?

               IF NO, RESEARCH MAY NOT BE CONDUCTED IN PERSON

               IF YES TO QUESTION 1 and [if applicable] QUESTION 2 ABOVE

3. Does the proposed research follow the best practices listed below? 

• Does the research proposal exclude vulnerable populations including but not limited to individuals with diabetes, known cardiovascular disease, or other potential health risks?
• Does the research proposal exclude older individuals (over the age of 65), especially if they have chronic medical conditions or are frail?
• Will social distancing (at least 6 feet) be maintained at all times OR will prolonged, close interaction (less than 6 feet) be limited to a cumulative total of less than 15 minutes for all procedures?
• Will research personnel and participants wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., face masks, gloves, goggles, lab coat, etc.) throughout all in-person study procedures?
• Will research personnel and participants complete a COVID-19 screening/attestation immediately before in-person interactions?
• Will the number of research personnel present during data collection be limited to one?
• Will the number of research participants present during data collection be limited to one?
• Will frequent and effective disinfecting procedures according to the CDC and University policy be carried out during and between participants?

If you answered NO to any of the above questions, or if you have any questions regarding research during the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact the HSRC office at hsrc@cwu.edu to discuss the study.

               IF YES TO ALL QUESTIONS ABOVE

4. You may submit an HSRC application for the proposed research; however, either HSRC and/or the University administration may still decline the proposal due to elevated risks during the pandemic.