From the PO-610
Handbook PO-610, Signature Capture and Electronic Record Management: Man-
ager’s Guide to Standard Operating Procedures
The recipient (or agent) must be present to accept a signature item. If the
recipient (or agent) is not available to sign for the item, the delivery employee
must leave a notice. The delivery employee must check the box on the front
of the PS Form 3849 that states, “If checked, you or your agent must be
present at the time of delivery to sign for item,” and must record the
appropriate scan event. A signed PS Form 3849 left by a customer does not
constitute a valid signature for delivery. Exceptions for signature capture are
allowed only for items that are endorsed with a Waiver of Signature. See
subchapter 2-11 for information on Signature Waiver
I know our 3849s say one thing and THIS says another but we often forget about the customer who's money we have already taken. THAT customer paid for the mail piece to be put in someone's hand. There are many scenarios that could occur with just leaving a mail piece. Misdelivered, stolen, damaged, lost, etc.