(1) In order to grant certification, a certifying agent must conduct an initial on-site inspection of each production unit, facility, and site that produces or distributes covered animals or covered products that is included in an operation for which certification is requested. An on-site inspection must be conducted at least once every 12 months thereafter for each certified operation that produces or distributes covered animals or covered products for the purpose of determining whether to approve the request for certification or whether certification of the operation should continue.

(2) The Department may require that additional inspections be performed by an accredited certifying agent or the Department for the purpose of determining compliance with the Act and this Chapter. Additional inspections may be announced or unannounced as required by the Department.

(1) The initial on-site inspection must be conducted within three (3) months following a determination that the applicant appears to comply or may be able to comply with the requirements of the Act and this Chapter.

(2) All on-site inspections must be conducted when an authorized representative of the operation who is knowledgeable about the operation is present, can access operation records, and at a time when facilities and activities that demonstrate the operation's compliance with or capability to comply with the applicable provisions of the Act and this Chapter can be observed.

(1) The operation's compliance or capability to comply with the Act and this Chapter; and

(2) That the information provided in accordance with sections 1326.3 and 1326.8 of this Article accurately reflects the practices used or to be used by the applicant for certification or by the certified operation.