(a) Upon completion of a hearing pursuant to § 831.1106, the presiding officer shall make and file an initial decision, a copy of which shall be served on each party or counsel by certified or registered mail.

(b) The initial decision shall include a statement of findings and conclusions, with the reasons therefor, and shall be based upon a consideration of the entire record.

(c) The initial decision shall become the final decision of OPM unless the case is appealed or reviewed pursuant to § 831.1111.