What is the purpose of an on-site visit?
It is a regulatory requirement. The federal regulations in 49 CFR Part 26.83(c)(1)(i): “A certifier must visit the firm's principal place of business, virtually or in person, and interview the SEDO, officers, and key personnel. The certifier must review those persons' résumés and/or work histories. The certifier must maintain a complete audio recording of the interview. The certifier must also visit one or more active job sites (if there is one). These activities comprise the “on-site review” (OSR), a written report of which the certifier must keep in its files.”
Is an on-site visit performed for home-based businesses?
Yes, if your business is based out of your home a virtual site visit is still required.
If my business is out of state how is the on-site visit performed?
For out-of-state businesses, a virtual site visit interview will be performed in place of a physical site visit. You may be asked to provide additional information.
Will the on-site visit be recorded?
Yes, the physical and virtual on-site visit will be recorded, and a copy of the recording will be kept in the certification file. A consent to be recorded will be requested from all individuals that participate in the interview.