The Ethics Review Committee (ERC)
Checklist: Steps in screening research ethics applications
Purpose of this checklist: The Ethics Review Committee (ERC) follows a structured screening process to ensure that every research application receives a thorough, fair, and timely ethical review. The checklist below outlines the key steps from submission through ongoing monitoring, helping researchers and reviewers understand what to expect at each stage.
📝 Steps in screening research ethics applications
Step 01
Submission of Application
- Complete ethics application form
- Research proposal
- Consent forms and participant information sheet
- Instruments (e.g., questionnaires, interview guides)
- Other approvals (institutional, funder, etc.)
Step 02
Administrative Screening
- Check for completeness
- Verify attached documents
- Ensure researcher eligibility
Step 03
Risk Level Classification
- Exempt
- Expedited review
- Full committee review
Step 04
Ethical Review
Reviewed by designated reviewers or full ERC. Evaluation based on:
- Informed consent
- Risk-benefit balance
- Confidentiality
- Justice and fairness
Step 05
Decision and Feedback
- Approval
- Conditional approval
- Deferred
- Rejected
Step 06
Communication of Outcome
Formal certificate with:
- Decision
- Revisions (if any)
- Ethics approval ID and date
Step 07
Resubmission (if needed)
- Researcher revises and resubmits
- Reviewed again by committee or designated reviewer
Step 08
Ongoing Monitoring
- Progress reports
- Adverse event reporting
- Renewal requests
- Final report submission