<p> Department Chair/Section Head Approval Process in ERSA</p><p>Automatic email notifications are generated by the ERSA system when the PI submits an IRB application. The email notification contains a direct link to the study requiring department approval.</p><p>Steps to Approval</p><p>If you are logged into the Ochsner network (an Ochsner computer or VPN) you may select the log-in option at the top of the page: Click Here for Ochsner Employee Login. Otherwise you will need to enter your username and password.</p><p>On your home page, from the left side of the page, make sure you choose the role as Dept/Div Approvers. 1. Under the My Inbox tab, click on the study title to open the study file.</p><p>2. You may view the study page by page by clicking the View Study option in the left column. To view the study as a one page document, click the Print Study option. When done, click finish or close to return to the study workspace.</p><p>3. To approve the study without changes or questions, click the activity on the left side of the screen titled Issue Department Approval. Once the activity opens you may enter information in the text box field (not required) and select OK. The study will move to the next step in the IRB review process.</p><p>4. To return the study to request changes or clarification, click the activity on the left side of the screen titled Changes Requested by Dept Reviewer. Once the activity opens you must enter information in the text box field to alert the study team of the changes requested. Then select OK. The study will be sent back to the study team to edit as needed. The study will be routed back to department review once the changes are made. </p><p>Need help: Call the IRB office at 504-842-3535 </p>