ASTM International’s committee on packaging (D10) presented its top annual award – the Award of Merit – to Richard A. Ward of Perritt Laboratories, Inc., in Hightstown, New Jersey, USA. The prestigious award, which includes the accompanying title of fellow, is ASTM’s highest recognition for individual contributions to developing standards.

The committee honored Ward for meritorious and dedicated service to the committee, with a strong and reliable pursuit of developing and delivering technical standards in the child-resistant packaging industry, and for respected technical expertise, outstanding and consistent leadership, and exemplary professionalism.

Ward has been a member of ASTM International since 1984. In addition to the committee on packaging, Ward is a member of the committees on primary barrier packaging (F02) and consumer products (F15).  

Ward, vice president of Perritt Laboratories Inc., has held the position since 1992, after joining the lab in 1977. He holds a dual bachelor’s degree in geology and education from Susquehanna University.  

In addition to ASTM International, Ward is a member of the Canadian Standards Association, the Institute of Packaging Professionals, the International Standards Association, and the Institute of Packaging Professionals Consultant Council. 

Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel+1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org 

Release #10541