BIRM Mobile App vs USDA Ethics

The BIRM app is a mobile-device version of the Bridge Inspector's Reference Manual, a comprehensive manual on programs, procedures, and techniques for inspecting ans evaluating a variety of in-service highway bridges. Bridge inspectors, bridge designers, engineers, owners and other users can download the app and use it in the field while conducting inspections.

This interactive mobile app provides USDA employees – and other Federal government employees – with short easy-to-read summaries of the Federal ethics rules and the Hatch Act's limitations on political activity. This information is available, at your fingertips, in a well-organized Ethics Library. The app also includes a series of ten short videos in a comprehensive Ethics Video Library, so that employees can quickly become more aware about these important rules, anytime, whether in the office, off-site, or on official travel. The app contains a handy Resources sections for USDA employees to be able to readily contact an Ethics advisor at the USDA Office of Ethics. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Since ethics determinations are often fact-specific, employees are strongly encouraged to contact their respective agency Ethics Advisors with any ethics questions. The app is a useful tool to raise awareness, but is not a substitute for the individual advice provided by an experienced Ethics Advisor.