Checklist for ordering data

• Provide as detailed a description as possible of variables and other data. Consider the possible need for updated information during the project period. The end of the period of observation should preferably not be described in a way which could interfere with later updating. Enclose a project description.
  
  
• With regard to de-identified data, copies of notifications to NSD’s Ombudsman for Privacy in Research or to the Data Inspectorate must be sent to Statistics Norway. With regard to sensitive personal data, a copy of the application to the Ombudsman at NSD and its recommendation or the application to and the concession from the Data Inspectorate must be sent to Statistics Norway. In the application the possible need for updated information during the project period should be considered (see above). When Statistics Norway receives these documents, the data will be adapted accordingly.
  
  
• The researcher must apply to the register owner’s executive body for permission to use data that does not belong to Statistics Norway. In the application the possible need for updated information during the project period should be considered (see above). Send a copy of the application and the permission to Statistics Norway.
  
  
• Where research on health is concerned it is a condition for the data delivery that the Regional Committee for Medical Research Ethics (REK, pages in Norwegian only) has approved the project. REK handles the application for concession to use as well as exemption from confidentiality in these matters. Copies of the application and the permission must be sent to Statistics Norway.
  
  
• In the event that data from external registers is to be linked to data in Statistics Norway, the party commissioning the work must ensure that these data are sent to Statistics Norway.
  
  
• Before the data can be supplied, an agreement (in Norwegian only) between Statistics Norway and the research institute, as well as a confidentiality agreement (cf. § 2-5 and 2-4 of the Statistics Act) must be signed and returned. The confidentiality agreement must be signed by everyone that will have access to the data.
  
  
• Specify the file format required; 'plain ASCII files’, import files to SAS, SPSS or other formats.