IRB Protocol-related documents that require a watermark (e.g., consent forms) must be uploaded into WVU+kc as a PDF (.pdf file extension). There is no validation that prevents users from submitting these documents if they are not a PDF, but the protocol will be sent back for revisions from the Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP).
Problem
Researchers cannot see a watermark on a document that should have one. There are two scenarios where researchers might be unable to see a watermark when it is expected:
The attachment has been uploaded in the wrong format: IRB Protocol-related documents that require a watermark (e.g., consent forms) must be uploaded into WVU+kc as a PDF (.pdf file extension).
Sometimes researchers open the Amendment or Renewal itself wondering why there is no watermark. The watermark only appears on the base protocol after the renewal or amendment has been incorporated.
Solution
Download OHRP's online forms in Word format (available here) to allow for easier editing and then convert the Word document into PDF. You can then upload the PDF file on the Notes & Attachments page of your protocol.
If a PDF file does not have a watermark and the protocol has been approved by the IRB, submit a ticket to the ITS Service Desk. Be prepared to provide the protocol number and the name of the document missing the watermark.
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