For new uses of archival data, what must researchers obtain?

• A. Publicize identifiables
• B. Approvals for new uses
• C. Ignore data-use agreements
• D. Seek consent of all subjects

Answer: (B)

When researchers want to reuse archival data for a new purpose, they must get approvals from the appropriate ethics or oversight body before proceeding. This review checks whether the new use raises risks to privacy or confidentiality and whether protections, data handling plans, and any data-use constraints are sufficient. The approval process may also determine if a consent waiver is appropriate or if additional safeguards are needed, and it often involves confirming that the data-use agreement with the data holder is being followed. Without these approvals, the new use isn’t permitted and could violate ethical standards and legal or contractual obligations.

Publicizing identifiables would breach privacy protections and likely violate data-use agreements. Ignoring data-use agreements is unethical and may be illegal. Seeking consent from all subjects is often impractical with archival data, and in many cases an ethics-approved waiver covers the need for fresh consent while safeguarding participants’ rights.