The SafePod Network (SPN) is a major research innovation to provide and manage a network of standardised safe settings (SafePods) across the UK for data that requires secure access for research
A SafePod is a small standardised safe setting that provides the physical security and controls for a researcher to access sensitive datasets. This includes a door control access system, CCTV, a researcher area for the analysis of datasets and a separate secure storage area for IT equipment. A SafePod is also wheelchair accessible and includes a height adjustable desk.
SafePods are primarily based at universities, with the SafePod at Durham University being part of a network of 25 SafePods spread geographically across the UK. The major advantage for a researcher is that they will now be able to securely access different Data Centre datasets from a single local SafePod, removing the geographical, time and cost barriers that have typically been associated with a researcher attending one of the few safe settings across the UK.
The SafePod Network (SPN) is a major research innovation to provide and manage a network of standardised safe settings (SafePods) across the UK for data that requires secure access for research.
All SafePods operate under standardised policies and procedures and provide accredited researchers with access to their project datasets from Data Centres that join the SPN. The SPN is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and run by the Scottish Centre for Administrative Data Research as part of the ADR UK programme.
The SafePod Network is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and managed by the University of St Andrews. SafePod is a registered trademark of the University of St Andrews.
A wealth of government datasets, as well as study and survey datasets will be available for secure access from SafePods. This includes datasets from:
Additional data centres are expected to join as the service develops. The SafePod can also be used for other local or confidential work that requires the use of a safe setting, and Institutions can also arrange for their datasets to be made available via the SafePod Network.
Bookings to access any SafePod are made via the SafePod Network's website, and not directly with the institution hosting the SafePod. To access the SafePod at Durham University, please follow the steps below:
SafePod booking requests can be made at anytime. Please note that short notice booking requests (within three days of the booking date) will need to be approved by Durham University first and then the Data Centre you wish to access data from.
On the day of the booking come to the Service Desk by the Entrance of the Bill Bryson Library and ask for the on-duty SafePod Coordinator. Please ensure you bring valid identification with you and follow the instructions provided in the booking confirmation email for use of the SafePod.
For more information about the Durham University SafePod, please contact SafePod.Durham@dulib.libanswers.com. Further information about the SPN and SafePod locations is available from their website at www.safepodnetwork.ac.uk.
