Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Podcast

In this episode, Duncan J. White speaks with Mark Kendall, Director – Fire Solutions Group UK and Europe, Kevin Montgomery, Senior Manager – Fire Solution Group US, and Juri Poorter, European Business Development Manager. In the conversation they talk about the latest trends in data centres, why they need such advanced fire protection systems and how new systems have changed fire protection strategies. They also discuss how battery energy storage systems are being used as backup energy storage for data centres, adding further complexity to fire protection systems and how these are being tackled by companies like Fike.

Electric vehicles, lithium-powered tools, and e-mobility devices are transforming the world around us. But as lithium battery fires become an increasing concern, one question remains:

Are the solutions we trust really up to the task?

When a single experiment conducted outside established testing protocols went viral on social media, it sparked debate across the fire safety industry and raised questions about one of the most widely used fire containment tools: the fire blanket. In this episode, we separate fact from fiction. 

 Join us as we speak with the team behind Bridgehill, a global leader in extreme fire blankets. With clients in more than 50 countries and a dedicated R&D department, Bridgehill has spent years testing fire blankets on EVs, lithium batteries, forklifts, and buildings under some of the harshest conditions imaginable.

As the construction industry advances, its methods change as well. However, fire test standards often lag behind, creating difficulties for stakeholders when it comes to applying tested details to modern applications. 

This podcast episode explores examples of gaps between testing and reality, and highlights the importance of early engagement and collaboration in achieving ultimate building compliance. 

In this episode, Duncan J. White speaks with Neil Pedersen, CEO at Fire Containers Limited. In the conversation they talk about developing a training programme around electric vehicle lithium-ion battery fires which led to the founding of Fire Containers Limited to educate firefighters on how to tackle these challenging fires. Pedersen explains what makes his fire containers unique compared to similar products on the market, which includes being fully self-contained in either static or transport situations as well as using recirculated water mist rather than thousands of litres or water which produces a toxic soup inside the container.

An explanation of how the Fire Aware organisation is trying to implement cultural change in all those who hold a duty of care for public safety. How Fire Aware is weaponising ethics to the extent that they can become a consumer choice which can affect the market and use market force to influence better standards of fire safety design, construction and management

In this episode, Duncan J. White speaks with Gustav Stigsohn, Product Manager, and Pontus Andersson, Partner Manager and Segment Manager at Fogmaker about awareness of fire safety in vehicles and machines. The discussion explores the most misunderstood and biggest fire risks in electric vehicles, modern machinery and the industrial environment and the new risks that have arisen for firefighters tackling these fires. The episode also looks at how technology hasn’t necessarily evolved at pace with new fire risks, Fogmaker’s environmentally friendly ECO 1 PFAS free liquid which is being introduced to all markets and what decision makers should prioritise when it comes to fire safety.

In this episode, Managing Editor Duncan J. White speaks with Andy Slater, ManagingDirector of PGI Safety, and Robbie Burns, Hampshire firefighter and Watch Manager, about the critical importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), effective decontamination practices and firefighter health. The discussion explores the growing awareness of contamination risks faced by emergency responders, the long-term health implications of exposure to hazardous substances and the practical steps fire and rescue services can take to better protect personnel.

In this episode of the IFSJ Podcast, Thilo Horstmann, Project Director, INTERSCHUTZ, tells IFSJ what visitors can expect as the event nears its return.

In this episode of the IFSJ Podcast, Duncan J. White, Managing Editor of the International Fire and Safety Journal, speaks with Nathaniel Thomas Hall, Head of Export and Innovation at Evac + Chair, about the vital role evacuation chairs play in emergency planning and inclusive safety procedures. From high-rise evacuations to supporting individuals with mobility challenges, this episode explores best practices, training requirements and why every organisation should have a clear evacuation strategy in place.

In this episode of the IFSJ Fire Door Podcast, Managing Editor Duncan J. White speaks with Nicola John, Managing Director at FDM – Training & Development, about the role of competency frameworks, regulatory compliance and professional training in improving fire door safety. The discussion explores how structured training and clear standards can strengthen accountability and ensure fire doors perform as critical life-safety systems.

In this episode of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Podcast, host Duncan J. White is joined by Intertek’s Laboratory Manager, Bhavika Harsora, and Country Business Line Leader – UK Electrical & Transportation Technologie, Andy Lowis, to discuss the work taking place at the company’s Leatherhead laboratory and how its testing and certification activity supports fire detection and security products seeking approval for market use.

Modern fires burn eight times faster, yet the technology fighting them has remained fundamentally unchanged. In this episode, Dr. Sunny Sethi, founder of HEN Technologies, shares how he is rewriting the rules of fire suppression, moving it from a battle of brute force to a precision science. We explore how HEN applies advanced fluid dynamics and technology to protect lives, their rapid adoption by over 1,000 fire departments, and the shift toward a future of predictive intelligence. This is the story of how scientific rigor is solving one of society's most critical safety challenges.

In this episode of the IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Podcast, Managing Editor Duncan J. White is joined by Brad Taylor, General Manager at Kidde Global Solutions, for a focused discussion on why consumer awareness remains one of the defining challenges for fire safety in 2026. Drawing on extensive frontline and industry experience, the conversation explores the complex relationship between regulation, technology and real-world behaviour and examines why compliance alone does not always translate into effective protection inside the home.

The episode also considers how changing lifestyles, emerging domestic risks and evolving energy systems are reshaping fire safety priorities, alongside the role of education, prevention and long-term engagement. Together, Duncan and Brad examine what meaningful progress looks like beyond detection and how the sector can build stronger foundations for safer behaviour, greater understanding and more resilient communities.

In this episode, IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White is joined by Simon Ince, Richard Bristow, and Chris Johnson from UL Solutions to discuss the role of voluntary certification in fire safety and construction products, and how third-party conformity assessment supports regulatory confidence across the built environment.

The conversation explores the difference between mandatory marking and voluntary certification, and why certification goes beyond one-off testing to include product evaluation, factory surveillance, and ongoing quality assurance. The discussion covers both active and passive fire protection – including fire detection and alarm systems, fire stopping, and fire doors – and explains how certification data is used by regulators, specifiers, installers and building owners, particularly in the context of evolving UK building safety requirements and higher-risk buildings.

In this episode, IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White speaks with Dr Martin Langer, CEO and CTO of OroraTech, to explore how satellite-based thermal intelligence is reshaping wildfire detection, situational awareness and predictive modelling. The conversation looks at how compact thermal-imaging satellites, AI-driven fire modelling and direct-to-user data delivery are helping fire services worldwide make faster, safer and more informed decisions in high-risk environments.

IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White sits down with Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire, to look at how the P50 composite fire extinguisher is the biggest innovation in portable firefighting equipment this decade.

In this episode, IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White is joined by Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales, and Denley Nunn, Regional Sales Manager at Cygnus Systems, to explore the transformative impact of wireless technology on fire detection and alarm systems.

The conversation covers Cygnus’s cloud-connected solutions - from the Configuration Tool to the Mesh Analyser and ALERT platform - which enable efficient on-site updates, streamlined commissioning, and improved system maintenance. The guests explain how cloud integration enhances operational efficiency through secure data management, remote software upgrades, and scalable features such as maintenance tracking and call-out functions. A key highlight is SmartNet, the world’s first EN 54-certified, 100% wireless system, which offers fast installation and robust performance without the need for gateways or translators - powered by patented self-forming, self-healing mesh technology.

The Building Safety Act has been a catalyst for cultural change, especially regarding attitudes towards fire safety - design, then build. 

In a discussion about the changes the industry is seeing, the Gateways, and the importance of early engagement, Alec Purdie and Glenn Hutchins from Quelfire sit down with Duncan White from the International Fire & Safety Journal. 

HEN Nozzles are proud to launch HEN Force, the game-changing firefighting nozzle designed to maximize water flow while minimizing effort. Engineered with innovation, HEN Force delivers 175 GPM at just 45 PSI, ensuring firefighters can achieve superior suppression with less strain.

 With its built-in TURBO Back-Pressure Device, nozzle reaction is reduced to just 60 lbs, eliminating excessive force and making handling easier than ever. Say goodbye to hose kinks, nozzle whip, and over-pumping issues—HEN Force keeps the attack line stable and responsive, maintaining 75 PSI in the hoseline for smooth operation.

Compatible with any 1.75” hose, HEN Force doesn’t require special equipment—just plug, flow, and fight fire with confidence. Designed for the frontline, it ensures firefighters can stay in the fight longer with less fatigue.

 Experience the power, precision, and performance of HEN Force—because every second counts. #JoinTheForce

In this episode, we chat with Ben Wolf, co-inventor of Honeywell Self-Test, and Mark Hunter, Senior Fire Specification Specialist. They discuss how Honeywell Self-Test revolutionises fire safety by reducing testing times from months to just minutes. Ben shares insights into the invention, highlighting its automation and detailed reporting features that enhance compliance. Mark discusses real-world applications and market reception, revealing how this innovation addresses common industry challenges. Together, they explore trends in fire safety technology, including the impact of digitalisation and IoT. This episode is packed with essential insights into how Honeywell is shaping the future of fire safety compliance.

With the Fire Department Instructors Conference just a few months away, International Fire and Safety Managing Editor Duncan J. White recently sat down with FDIC legends Eric Schlett and David Rhodes. This relaxed and light-hearted discussion looks at what visitors to FDIC can expect about the Hands on Training (HOT) sessions taking place around Indianapolis and the trade show running in the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. Eric and David share exciting news about the new experiences visitors can expect from this year’s event. Make sure you take the opportunity to enjoy these three well-known fire service figures sharing memories, experiences and having fun together!

Join us as Duncan J. White explores the critical issue of fires in waste and recycling facilities with founder and CTO of NetVu Group, Mike Newton. We delve into the causes of these fires, the growing threat of lithium-ion batteries, and the innovative solutions making a real difference. Mike shares his insights on the importance of early fire detection and verification, and his solution FireVu's advanced technology, highlighting the importance of rapid response in preventing catastrophic incidents. 

Tim Thorne of TenCate Protective Fabrics shares insights on the global firefighting market, emphasising rising PPE standards and the invisible dangers firefighters face, like smoke and heat. TenCate partners with PPE garment manufacturers globally, focusing on using innovative technologies to combat heat stress and protect firefighters.

The importance and value of service inspections by trusted providers, such as Survitec, can never be underestimated to ensure safety systems work effectively when required. In this podcast, IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White talks with Finn Lende-Harung, Chief Commercial Officer at Survitec to draw attention to this situation and highlight the value of using reputable, trusted safety providers to ensure fire safety systems and equipment are properly maintained and inspected as per the rules and regulations to avoid costly delays/detentions in port. Most importantly it will ensure the safety of seafarers by ensuring safety systems can be relied upon to work effectively if/when required and demonstrate the false economy – even dangers associated with taking shortcuts when it comes to effective safety management.

In the fire safety and security industry, TOA’s core business is to design and build voice alarm and public address systems for life safety messaging and evacuation. We would like to discuss the impact that an audio manufacturer has in this field and how our product development is at the forefront of building these systems to keep people safer in the event of an incident. We would like to discuss how audio has impacted greatly on the design of commercial buildings such as transport hubs, hotels, and healthcare facilities and the legislation behind designing these bespoke systems to comply with safety standards. We would also like to stress the importance of training external companies in the legislation that applies.

Research indicates that 75% of people respond more rapidly to a voice announcement than a bell sounder and it gives management companies the opportunity to guide people with more direct instructions or to keep them in one place if that is the safety option.  It also allows better communication with those managing the incident and emergency services.

Don’t miss this interview with Lance Harry, P.E. CEO/ president of Fireaway Inc. the manufacturer the Stat-X condensed aerosol fire suppression product line. Industrial applications face operational risks and regulatory challenges from outdated fire suppression methods. Stat-X's environmentally sound, cutting-edge aerosol fire suppression technology safeguards valuable assets, minimizes operational downtime, and ensures employee safety.

For more information visit: https://www.statx.com/?utm_source=FSJA&utm_medium=Article%20-%20Front%20Cover%20Package&utm_campaign=General

IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J White sat down with Andy Slater, Managing Director at PGI, Inc, and John Lord, Managing Director, SimTrainer, UK to discuss the facts behind cancer risks to firefighters and the wider emergency services and their families. The podcast sheds light on the unforeseen and potentially lethal risks that demand attention. Focus is also given to the role that PPE technology plays in providing the necessary levels of protection and innovations being explored.

With the Fire Department Instructors Conference just a few weeks away, International Fire and Safety Managing Editor Duncan J. White recently took the opportunity to sit down with FDIC legends Eric Schlett and David Rhodes. This relaxed and light-hearted discussion looks at what visitors to FDIC can expect in relation to the Hands on Training (HOT) sessions taking place around Indianapolis and the trade show running in the Indiana Convention Centre and Lucas Oil Stadium. The interview kicks off with a tribute to the father of FDIC Chief (Ret) Bobby Halton who will never be far from anyone’s thoughts during their time in Indy. Eric and David share exciting news about the new experiences visitors can expect from this year’s event. Make sure you take the opportunity to enjoy these three well known fire service figures sharing memories, experiences and having fun together!    

For more information about FDIC, go to www.fdic.com

With the many complexities in implementing a world-class safety program, combined with the millions of workplace injuries that continue to occur every year, the value of technology that simplifies safety procedures and connects safety managers to their employees working in hazardous environments, has never been more important.

This podcast explores the role of virtual reality in the fire services industry, bringing together a wealth of knowledge from three continents with guest speakers Dr James Mullins, founder and CTO of FLAIM Systems and volunteer firefighter in Australia; former Lieutenant, USA Fire Department, Evan Wing; and former UK Fire Officer, Ted O’Brien. The conversation opens with a history on the foundations of FLAIM, as Dr James Mullins reveals the challenges that exist for firefighters in the ANZ region and the role of virtual reality. The podcast then unravels the challenges and opportunities unique to each continent, exposing the regional differences in the adoption of new technology in the fire services industry. Listen to the podcast to find out why the fire sector is slow to adopt technological change.

Georgina Gilbert and Rebecca Openshaw- Rowe are the Antarctic Fire Angels. In this podcast IFSJ Group Editor Duncan J White talks with George and Bex about their forthcoming unaided trek from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole in November 2023.

IFSJ Managing Editor Duncan J. White recently took the opportunity of a rare window in Ryan Fogelman’s calendar to discuss the background of Fire Rover and how the concept has become a reality within fire protection and suppression in such a short space of time.

Duncan and Ryan look back on their first meeting at FDIC and recall when Ryan was initially accused by firefighters of ‘doing them out of a job’! In Ryan’s inimitable style he was quickly able to allay their initial concerns to the point where Fire Rover is seen as an important safety system to make the role of a firefighter safer at incidents in waste and recycling facilities.

Duncan J. White, Managing Editor of International Fire and Safety Journal recently sat down with Paul Davison, CEO of the Proteus Communication Group and Iain Hoey, Editor of IFSJ to discuss ‘The Importance of effective marketing’.

In this podcast, which is the first in a series which will cover topics of general interest, they covered a whole host of areas looking at how the marketer can work more effectively with the editor in order to maximise the return on marketing investment.

It is interesting to hear things from both sides of how simple things can make your message more effective and stand a better chance of actually reaching your target audience.

If you are interested in joining Duncan for a future podcast please contact him via email with a brief synopsis of what you would like to discuss – duncanj.white@intfireandsafetyjournal.com