The following document constitutes a formal policy of EP Journals Group. It is intended to be read together with related policies and guidance notes published by the organisation. This policy applies to all journals under the EP Journals Group imprint and is implemented across the organisation on a continuing basis.
Publication frequency across the portfolio is monthly. Where timelines are referenced, they are stated as typical timeframes and may vary by discipline, submission volume, and the requirements of the peer review process. The organisation retains the right to apply additional checks where warranted by a specific case.
Purpose
EP Journals Group treats correction of the scholarly record as a continuing responsibility. Where published content is found to contain substantive error or to be unreliable, the organisation may publish formal notices. The monthly publication frequency supports timely issuance of notices once documentation is complete.
Corrective actions are implemented with attention to transparency and procedural fairness. Notices are linked to the original publication and are designed to be discoverable.
Corrections
Corrections may be issued where errors are identified that do not invalidate the central conclusions of the work. Examples include typographical errors that change meaning, errors in author affiliation, or mistakes in a figure that can be corrected without undermining the study.
Where an error is limited, a correction notice may be published. Where the article requires substantial amendment, the organisation may apply additional measures.
Expressions of concern
An expression of concern may be published where credible concerns exist regarding the integrity of a publication and an investigation is ongoing. The purpose is to inform readers while preserving procedural fairness.
Expressions of concern may be updated or replaced by a correction or retraction once an investigation is complete.
Retractions
Retractions may be issued where findings are unreliable due to misconduct or honest error, where plagiarism or redundant publication is identified, or where research ethics violations materially affect the work.
Retraction notices state the reason for retraction in a factual manner. The organisation seeks author input where possible; however, author agreement is not required for retraction.
Requests and reporting
Requests for correction or retraction may be submitted by authors, readers, reviewers, editors, or institutions. Submissions should provide specific evidence or documentation. Anonymous reports may be considered where evidence is provided.
The organisation may consult institutions where a formal investigation is required. Outcomes are recorded and may be reflected in public notices.
Policy enquiries
Enquiries regarding interpretation or application of this policy may be directed to the editorial office. Correspondence should identify the relevant journal (if applicable), the manuscript or article identifier (if applicable), and a concise description of the issue.
Email: editor@ep-journals.org