OSHA Opens Competition for New Education Centers
OSHA invited nonprofits on July 20 to submit applications in a competition to become OSHA Training Institute Education Centers -- the agency's national network of leading training sites. OSHA launched it in 1992 after demand from private-sector and federal workers for training outstripped the Arlington Heights, Ill., OTI's capacity. For information about the Education Center program, including current organizations and course offerings, visit www.osha.gov/fso/ote/training/edcenters/index.html.
Applications are due by Aug. 24. A proposal conference will be held Aug. 7 in Arlington Heights, 2020 S. Arlington Heights Road. Jim Barnes, director of the Office of Training and Educational Programs, 847-297-4810, is the information contact.
The agency said the number of organizations selected will be determined according to the qualifications of the applicants and their ability to serve regional populations. Colleges, universities, or other nonprofit training organizations are eligible; special emphasis will be given to a long list of major metropolitan locations stretching from Austin, Texas, to Wilmington, Del.
Education Centers are required to present six core courses annually and at least five other specific-topic courses annually; they may present alternative short courses and seminars that are devoted to areas the agency emphasizes, including ergonomics in nursing homes, construction noise, evacuation planning, bloodborne pathogens in health care settings, and more.