Foulke said the importance of emergency preparedness became clear after the attack on the World Trade Center and anthrax exposures in 2001. In the aftermath of these attacks, OSHA worked to collaborate with federal, state and local governments, as well as private sector employers, to provide employee safety and health technical support and services.
"I am confident that the creation of the Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management, and the support of the talented OSHA team we already have, will further enhance the agency's leadership in protecting the working men and women of this country, whether they are engaged in their normal work or involved in the challenging tasks of response and recovery," Foulke said.
Galassi most recently served nine years as deputy director of OSHA's Directorate of Enforcement Programs. He began his career with OSHA in 1986 as a compliance officer in the Milwaukee, Wis., area office. He is a certified industrial hygienist and holds a master's degree in public health in environmental/occupational health from the University of Illinois.
"Tom has been an invaluable member of the OSHA team for the past 22 years," said Foulke. "I congratulate him on his new position, and I am confident that we will continue to benefit from his vast experience as we move forward to accomplish the agency's mission and ensure that OSHA is effective for years to come."