OSHA has tapped an EPA expert in community right-to-know to be its point person for coordinating emergency preparedness and response in workplaces around the nation.

John Ferris is the new Special Assistant for Emergency Preparedness, in a move announced by OSHA chief John Henshaw.

Ferris served at EPA 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. Ferris 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 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.