(a) Only the Regional Director may release an inmate from controlled housing status. The following factors are considered in the evaluation of an inmate's readiness for return to the general population:

(1) Relationship with other inmates and staff members, which demonstrate that the inmate is able to function in a less restrictive environment without posing a health threat to others or to the orderly operation of the institution;

(2) Involvement in work and recreational activities and assignments or other programs; and

(3) Adherence to institution guidelines and Bureau of Prisons rules and policy.

(b) An inmate released from a controlled housing status may be returned to the general population of that institution, or to another federal or non-federal institution.