HRA Canada Information

Human Research Accreditation Canada (HRA Canada) is an independent, not-for-profit accrediting body for Canadian human research. It accredits Human Research Protection Programs (HRPPs) of Canadian public and private organizations through a voluntary, peer-driven program based on education and excellence. Accreditation signifies that an organization has proven that its HRPP meets a rigorous set of standards focused on research participant protection, evidenced-based practices, efficiency and quality. An organization with an accredited HRPP has made a commitment to continuous quality improvement and to conducting ethically- and scientifically-sound research. HRA Canada’s accreditation standards are built on Canada’s normative documents governing human research and embrace our country’s unique cultures and diversity. The standards also encompass the relevant US Code of Federal Regulations, related guidelines and best practices. The accreditation standards are straightforward, effective and tailored to public and private Canadian REBs, CROs, investigative sites and biobanks so that all entities can work in concert with consistency, transparency and accountability of conduct. We believe that when it comes to risk management and safeguarding the rights and welfare of research participants, Canada is among the best places in the world to conduct human research. Our mission is to promote Canadian excellence in human research through accreditation.