What happens when fire protection standards do not apply?

Hello Smart Firefighting Community!

Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy.

Recorded live at the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) 2025 Conference alongside the AFAC, WAFA, and Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience Conference in Perth, Australia.

In this episode, Alex Starkey shares what it takes to protect environments that fall outside traditional fire codes. From tunnels to aircraft hangars, these are the risks where standard solutions do not apply and every design requires careful engineering.

Alex explains how water mist is gaining ground as a practical option in spaces with limited resources or environmental constraints. He also highlights emerging technologies like fiber optic heat detection and autonomous suppression systems that are changing how teams prevent and control fires.

Overall, this conversation is about stepping into complex challenges, continuing to learn, and sharing knowledge to move the industry forward.

So take a listen to hear what he has to share.

Episode 315: When Fire Protection Has No Rulebook with Alex Starkey