Sparking Interest | A Passive Fire Protection Podcast
Association for Specialist Fire Protection’s Sparking Interest Podcast explores the latest trends, innovations, and insights in the world of passive fire protection. Hosted by ASFP’s Managing Director Mike Ward, the podcast features engaging discussions with leading professionals in the field of passive fire protection - covering essential topics such as fire safety regulations, new technologies, and best practices.
Episodes

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Welcome to our Sparking Interest podcast!
In this episode, we give you an exclusive of our revamped studio space dedicated for ASFPTV also including updates on upcoming training courses and events. Learn about our plans for new technical groups and expanded competency pathways, all aimed at enhancing knowledge and expertise within the field of passive fire protection.

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Amanda explores CCPI's innovative approach and its transformative impact on industry practices. From guaranteeing clear and accurate product information to promoting organisational culture and competency, CCPI stands at the forefront of enhancing industry standards.

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Andrea White from Women Talking Fire. Andrea shares her journey in the industry, spanning over 25 years, and discusses the development of Women Talking Fire as a platform for advocating women's roles in fire safety.
From insightful discussions on industry challenges to the importance of diversity and inclusion, Andrea delves into various topics that shape the landscape of fire safety today. Discover how Women Talking Fire is making a tangible difference in the industry, providing a supportive community for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and drive positive change.
Read more about Women Talking Fire: https://www.talkingfire.co.uk/women-talking-fire/

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode, we are joined by industry expert Aman Sharma as we delve into the intricate dynamics of digital regulation, industry ethics, and accountability. With a background in fire and rescue operations, Aman champions cultural change in the built environment and leads key initiatives such as BS 8644: 2021, while also advising governmental bodies on building safety standards and regulations.
During our chat, we discussed the importance of the Golden Thread in the fire industry and the need for common standards among software providers. Aman addresses the challenges and importance of digital solutions in supporting the Golden Thread throughout a building's lifecycle.
Find out more about Totus Digital here: https://totus.digital/

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode of the ASFP Sparking Interest Podcast, we sit down with Mark Wilson from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to discuss the transformative impact of Gateway One and other building safety regulations.
Mark, who has been integral to the rollout of new fire safety protocols, offers an in-depth look at how these changes are reshaping the construction industry. From the evolution of the HSE to the critical role of Gateway One in ensuring safer buildings, Mark provides valuable insights and answers key questions about the future of fire safety in construction.
Read more about the gateways here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/regulator.htm

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode, we dive into the debate over potential changes in high-rise building regulations, specifically the proposal to lower the height threshold from 18 meters to 11 meters. Join us as we explore the implications of such a shift, the practical challenges it presents, and whether it’s a feasible move for the industry. We'll discuss: The historical context of the 18-meter benchmark.
The logistical and bureaucratic hurdles of expanding regulations. The impact on building safety and fire risk. Expert insights and industry opinions on the potential changes. Whether you're a building professional, safety expert, or just curious about the future of construction regulations, this episode offers valuable insights into a significant topic shaping the industry. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth discussions on building safety and regulations.
Read more about the gateways here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/building-safety/regulator.htm

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Welcome to the ASFP Sparking Interest Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving deep into Fire Door Safety Week with our special guest, Kevin Underwood, the Technical Director of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). Join us as Kevin shares his extensive experience in the timber industry, discussing the importance of fire doors and the vital role they play in building safety. We’ll cover:
The significance of Fire Door Safety Week and its initiatives.
Insights into the latest developments in fire door standards and regulations.
Common misconceptions about fire doors and how to ensure they meet safety standards.
The responsibilities of manufacturers and installers in maintaining fire door integrity. Tune in as we explore key topics that affect the construction industry and the safety of our buildings. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes!

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode of the ASFP's Sparking Interest podcast, we sit down with Lisa Hendricks, Business Development Manager at Assent Group and recipient of the prestigious "Woman of the Year" award at the Women in Fire Safety Awards 2023.
Lisa shares her unique journey from a 25-year career in financial services to becoming a key figure in the fire safety and building control industry. We explore her role in co-founding the Fire Safety Building Regulation Group (FSBRG), aimed at uniting voices in building control and fire safety, and discuss the vital changes following the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy.
Lisa dives into the importance of diversity, the creation of the Next Generation Building Control group, and her vision for future-proofing the fire safety industry by supporting emerging professionals.
Topics Covered:
📌 ASFP’s commitment to diversity in fire safety
📌 The journey behind FSBRG and its impact
📌 Insights on the Building Safety Act and industry regulations
📌 Bridging generations with Next Generation Building Control
📌 Lisa’s advocacy for industry-wide professionalism
Tune in as we explore key topics that affect the construction industry and the safety of our buildings.

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode of the ASFP's Sparking Interest podcast, we sit down with TG10 Chair Damien Ward, TG10 Convenor Hannah Mansell, and ASFP Head of Training Adam Shipstone to explore the complexities of fire doors in existing buildings.
Key topics covered:
📌 Common challenges with fire doors in existing buildings
📌 The importance of proper condition surveys & inspections Compliance, certification issues, and manufacturer inconsistencies
📌 The role of sustainability in fire door management
📌 The impact of upcoming legislation changes

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode of the ASFP Sparking Interest Podcast, we sit down with Mark Sennett, publisher of Fire Safety Matters, to discuss the biggest topics in the fire safety industry.
With Fire Safety Matters Live taking place on 5th June at Coventry Building Society Arena, we explore what attendees can expect, including high-level CPD sessions, top industry speakers, and a packed exhibition.
We also dive into:
✅ The Fire & Security Matters Awards and why recognition matters
✅ ASFP’s Young Leaders Initiative and the future of fire safety professionals
✅ The importance of industry collaboration with FIA, FireQual, and others
✅ How CPD and training are shaping compliance and best practices
✅ The launch of a CPD streaming service in April 2025 With evolving regulations and growing challenges in passive fire protection, this episode is packed with valuable insights for fire safety professionals, building managers, and industry leaders. Don’t miss out on this in-depth discussion!
📅 Join us at Fire Safety Matters Live: https://www.fsmatters.com/Home