Understanding OSHA's New Regional Realignment: What It Means for Safety Professionals

OSHA's New Regional Realignment: Key Changes for Safety Pros

In May 2024, OSHA announced a major change in its regional structure, affecting training centers and safety professionals across the country. This realignment includes the creation of a new regional office in Birmingham, Alabama, and the merging of Regions 9 and 10 into a new San Francisco region. Understanding these changes is crucial for compliance and training effectiveness.

As OSHA transitions to a geographically-named regional structure, it's essential to stay updated on the latest guidelines to ensure that your training programs meet the new regional requirements. For more details, visit OSHA's official announcement.

Changes in Regional Structure

OSHA’s realignment aims to improve operational efficiency by restructuring its regions based on geographic locations. This change significantly impacts OTI Education Centers (OTIECs), particularly those previously operating in Regions 4, 6, 9, and 10. The new regional boundaries will require OTIECs to adapt their training schedules and locations accordingly.

Impact on OTI Education Centers

For fiscal year (FY) 2025 and beyond, OTIECs will operate within their new regional boundaries. Courses planned outside these areas will be considered out-of-region and subject to specific guidelines. Special allowances have been made for the first quarter of FY 2025, but by the second quarter, full compliance is expected. Learn more about the impact on your training programs and how to navigate these changes.

Navigating the Transition

OTIECs and safety professionals would do well to familiarize themselves with the new boundaries and update their marketing and advertising efforts in prompt order. OTE will provide ongoing guidance to ensure a smooth transition. Stay informed by subscribing to OSHA updates or contacting your regional office for specific advice.

What This Means for UC San Diego OSHA Training Institute Education Center

With the new regional realignment, UC San Diego Extended Studies OSHA Training Institute Education Center is positioned to serve a broader audience, particularly through Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT). This change opens up new opportunities for professionals in the newly-formed San Francisco region, which merges former Regions 9 and 10.

If you're located in the San Francisco region, you can now take advantage of our high-quality VILT courses from the comfort of your own location. Whether you're in California, Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, or other neighboring states, our virtual courses provide the flexibility you need to stay compliant with OSHA standards without the need for travel.

For those still interested in our in-person courses, our San Diego location continues to welcome professionals from across the country. Whether you prefer in-person training or the convenience of online learning, UC San Diego Extended Studies OSHA Training Institute Education Center remains committed to delivering comprehensive and effective safety training programs.

UC San Diego Extended Studies OSHA Training Institute Education Center is dedicated to providing high-quality occupational safety and health training. As a leading provider of OSHA courses, we equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure workplace safety and compliance with OSHA standards.