Data is essential for research, development and innovation. At the same time, the use of sensitive data is increasing. This includes health and personal data as well as confidential information from companies. Sharing such data raises important questions about security, privacy, ethics and legal requirements.
SINTEF has experience from projects involving sensitive data shared with hospitals, public organisations and industrial partners. These experiences show that it can be challenging to identify relevant requirements, assess risks and determine how data should be handled throughout a project. Clear and practical guidance is therefore needed to support researchers and project participants.
About the project
The project develops a common framework for the safe, ethical and responsible management of sensitive data. It covers key stages of the data lifecycle, including collection, storage, use, sharing and archiving. The framework also supports understanding and application of ethical, legal and security requirements.
SINTEF contributes by combining experience from previous and ongoing projects with expertise in ethics, data security, legal requirements and technology. The work includes practical guidelines, examples and a digital resource for researchers and project participants. Collaboration with relevant SINTEF expert groups and IT specialists ensures that both technical and ethical aspects are considered.
The digital resource can be updated as regulations, technologies and best practices evolve. The project therefore provides a practical and sustainable approach to responsible data management, supporting safer data sharing, stronger collaboration and responsible innovation across research, healthcare, public services and industry.