OSHA Names Special Assistant for Emergency Preparedness

Ferris comes to OSHA from EPA, where he served for 13 years as a technical expert in chemical emergency preparedness and prevention. He led the team for the development of regulations under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act and the Clean Air Act's Risk Management Program. He also was the co-chair of the EPA/OSHA Standing Committee that oversees the coordination of risk management program and process safety management regulations.

"John's skills and experience will serve OSHA well in working with other agencies and organizations to ensure that worker safety and health is addressed in emergency response and preparedness efforts," said OSHA Administrator John Henshaw.

Ferris earned a Masters in Public Administration from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo.