Minors in laboratories and research

Safeguarding minors in research environments

The Protection of Minors policy applies to all interactions with minors in labs and research settings. Faculty and staff must fully comply with ASU Youth Activities requirements before engaging with minors. 

Minors are not allowed in laboratories except where permitted under the Minors in Laboratories policy, and where approved by Environmental Health and Safety and the Youth Protection Program Office. 

Types of minor engagement in university labs

1. Minor interns. Individuals under the age of 18 who are not enrolled or admitted to the university and who seek a structured learning experience to fulfill an academic requirement set by their K-12 school, district or educational program. Minor internships are typically part of a formal curriculum where students gain hands-on experience related to their coursework or career interests. Minor internships require approval from the dean or director and a student placement agreement through clinical partnerships.
2. Minor volunteers. Individuals under the age of 18 who are not enrolled or admitted to the university and who offer their time without the expectation of compensation, academic credit or other tangible benefits. Minor volunteers participate in activities to gain exposure, contribute to research or community initiatives or support university-related functions. Their participation is entirely voluntary and not tied to any formal school requirements. Minor volunteers’ parents or legal guardians must complete the volunteer form. 
3. Group-based lab activities. Minors participating in lab activities as part of their camp or outreach program, where multiple participants visit the lab with their program or activity manager.

Supervision and restrictions

• Employee supervision. Minors must be under the direction and supervision of an ASU-authorized official who is a full-time ASU employee who is not a student worker or temporary employee. 
• One-to-one interactions are prohibited. The university prohibits interactions where one minor is alone with one adult. Staff must follow the rule of three. 
• ASU personnel must remain present and attentive. Minors must never be left alone in a lab or allowed to move freely throughout the university premises. 
• Building and lab access. Building and lab keys are not issued to minors. Minors must always be accompanied by ASU personnel.

In addition to the Youth Protection Program review and approval, all ASU and research-related projects involving minors as subjects must be reviewed and approved by ASU’s Institutional Review Board before implementing studies, including recruitment and screening activities.

Immediately report any incidents or concerns that occur during lab or research activities, such as injuries, behavioral issues or safety threats.