Principle 4 - Minimizing Suffering

• Avoid unnecessary physical/mental suffering and injury

• Conduct experiments as safely as possible

The Code stipulates that experiments should avoid unnecessary physical and mental suffering and
injury.
The principle emphasizes the need to minimize the harm that research subjects may experience
during an experiment, it also states the ethical duty of researchers to put the health and safety of
participants first. Researchers must make sure that the risks associated with the experiment are
outweighed by its potential advantages, and must take all necessary steps to minimize harm.
Key points of the fourth principle include:
1. Risk Minimization: Researchers must design experiments in a way that minimizes physical and
mental suffering or injury to participants. This involves careful planning and consideration of
potential risks before conducting the experiment.
2. Justification of Risks: Any risks that participants might face must be justified by the potential
benefits of the research. Researchers should weigh the anticipated benefits against the
potential harm to ensure that the experiment has scientific or societal value.
3. Informed Consent: Participants must be fully informed about the potential risks and
discomforts associated with the experiment before they agree to participate. Informed consent
ensures that individuals have the autonomy to make an informed decision about whether or
not to participate based on the risks involved.

Principle 7 - Protection Facilities

• Use adequate facilities to protect subjects from harm
• Ensure safety measures are in place
Adequate facilities must be used to protect the subjects against even remote possibilities of injury,
disability, or death.
The principle points out the need of making certain that research subjects have sufficient protections
and safeguards during the course of an experiment. It shows how institutions and researchers must
be proactive in reducing participant risks, including those that are unlikely to materialize.

Key points of the fourth principle include:

1. Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Researchers must thoroughly assess the potential risks
associated with the experiment and implement measures to mitigate these risks. This involves
identifying possible sources of harm and taking steps to prevent or minimize their occurrence.

2. Safety Precautions: Adequate facilities and resources must be provided to protect participants
from harm. This may include medical personnel on standby, emergency equipment, and
appropriate safety protocols to address any unforeseen circumstances.

3. Emergency Response Plans: Researchers should develop comprehensive emergency response

plans to address any unexpected incidents that may arise during the course of the experiment.
This includes procedures for providing immediate medical attention and ensuring the safety
and well-being of participants.

4. Participant Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of participants is essential to promptly identify

any signs of distress or adverse reactions. Researchers should closely observe participants
throughout the experiment and be prepared to intervene if necessary to prevent harm.