(b) Suspension pending investigation. An appointing authority may, for the purpose of ascertaining an employee’s fitness for continued employment, suspend an employee pending the outcome of an internal or external investigation. The following apply:

1. (1) When an investigation has not revealed cause for disciplinary action, the suspension shall be retracted and expunged from all records, and the employee shall receive back pay for the full period of suspension.
2. (2) When an investigation has revealed cause for disciplinary action, the suspension shall be converted, either in whole or in part, to a disciplinary action.

(c) Duration of suspension.

1. (1) A suspension, including during a pending internal investigation, may not exceed 60 working days in 1 calendar year.
2. (2) A suspension pending investigation by external agencies may be maintained up to 30 working days after conclusion of the external investigation.
3. (3) A suspension under 71 Pa.C.S. § 2705(f) (relating to political activity) may not exceed 120 working days.