
Safety and Ethical Guidelines
2011
All projects being presented at the 2011 Strait Regional Science Fair must meet the following minimum safety and ethical guidelines as set out by the Strait Regional Science Fair Committee and the Youth Science Foundation of Canada. Projects that do not meet these guidelines will not be displayed at the regional science fair.
General Project Guidelines:
1. All projects require the approval of a supervising teacher.
2. Projects involving dangerous materials, potentially dangerous experiments or techniques must be done under the supervision of a qualified adult. (Accompanying paperwork must be included.)
3. The maximum size of the exhibit, including presentation materials and experimental devices is 3.5 m high, 1.2 m wide and 0.8 m deep.
4. All backboards must be stable and self standing. No flimsy, unstable backboards are permitted.
5. All papers on backboards must be secure on all sides. No open edges.
6. All paperwork should be contained in binders or folders.
Chemical-Fire Safety Guidelines:
1. No toxic, radioactive or flammable materials may be displayed.
2. Open flames are not permitted.
3. No pressurized containers may be displayed.
4. Chemicals involved in projects may be represented by models or artificial samples.
Material-Electrical Safety Guidelines:
1. All electrical devices must be CSA approved.
2. Student constructed electrical devices must be properly insulated and grounded and inspected by an electrician. . Any exposed wires must be contained inside the display.
3. No electrical devices that produce a voltage greater than 36V may be displayed.
4. Sharp or dangerous objects or devices must be guarded and protected. Models are recommended where possible.
Biological Safety Guidelines:
1. No bacteria, viruses or other pathogens may be displayed.
2. Animal studies must be done under the supervision of a qualified adult.
3. No live animals may be displayed.
4. All human and animal research must conform to YSF guidelines. (http://www.ysf.ca)
Ethical Guidelines:
1. No vertebrate animal my be harmed during research.
2. Before any research involving humans begins, researchers must have informed consent from all research subjects and their parents when necessary. (Including survey type projects.)
3. Human research that may cause undue duress to research subjects must be discussed and approved by appropriate medical personnel.