Please introduce yourself, describe your role or position within your current workplace and an overview of your responsibilities.
I am the Managing Director of Dr Tony Cash & Associates Ltd, an independent multidisciplinary fire engineering consultancy providing fire safety strategies, compliance assessments, risk analysis, incident preparedness and operational safety improvements for clients across transport, infrastructure and industrial sectors. My experience includes rail systems, stations, tunnels, rolling stock, aviation facilities and critical infrastructure, supporting both public and private sector organisations in the delivery of safe, compliant and resilient operations.
Please explain your volunteer role and what inspired you to become an IFE volunteer?
I currently serve as President of the IFE London Branch and Chair of the Transport Special Interest Group. I have also previously volunteered as an IFE exam marker. Through this work, I recognised the importance of improving candidates’ understanding of fire science and engineering to support professional competence and career progression. I was inspired to volunteer by former Chief Examiner Mick Quy and encouraged by Roy Bishop to help revive the London Branch.
What do you find most enjoyable about being an IFE volunteer?
I particularly value the opportunities to stimulate debate, encourage the sharing of good practice and contribute to the development of global fire safety standards. Volunteering provides an important platform for professional collaboration and technical discussion across the fire sector.
How does being part of the IFE volunteering community benefit you (i.e. career, personally)?
Volunteering is both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling. Contributing time and expertise allows me to see the positive impact that better informed and better equipped fire engineers can have on life safety and the wider profession.
What skills, insights or knowledge have you gained through volunteering?
Volunteering has strengthened my ability to listen, debate constructively and maintain a balanced perspective when addressing professional and technical issues.
How do volunteers like you help shape the future of fire safety?
Volunteers help shape the future of fire safety by sharing knowledge, discussing emerging technologies and improving understanding of evolving processes, procedures and working practices. Through formal and informal engagement, volunteers support the continuous development of professional standards and enhance the effectiveness of fire engineers across the sector.