This episode of the Dope and Tape Show features a discussion with CEO Lisa and Instructor Rob from Fire Tech, a company that provides fire protection training and resources. They emphasize detailed, in-depth training based on industry standards like NFPA 25. They offer online courses, in-person workshops, and are expanding their in-person NICET prep classes. The Fire Tech representatives stress the importance of knowing the NFPA standards inside and out, especially for NICET certifications. They recommend reading the NFPA 25 handbook and dedicating 10-15 minutes each night to studying. Fire Tech is launching new team portals with features like learning paths and progress monitoring to help companies train their employees effectively. They are also giving away a free online course with every episode in 2025. Many technicians struggle with navigating the NFPA 25 standard, particularly sections on internal inspections and understanding different types of MIC (microbiologically influenced corrosion). Becoming an expert in areas like corrosion identification and solutions can significantly increase a technician's value and earning potential in the industry. Experienced professionals are encouraged to share their knowledge with apprentices and helpers, and those newer to the trade should ask questions and be eager to learn. They discuss the impact of technology like smartphones and AI on the industry. They reminisce about Nextel phones and other outdated technology. They debate the merits of union vs. non-union work in the fire protection industry.
https://learning.firetech.com/pages/nicet-water-based-systems-layout-online-courses?water_based_layout&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA1p28BhCBARIsADP9HrMsegtA4Vv47zpmYqIRpfAiydCKhHmCOvRTx6f8eb-QaUNjdMkotlsaAganEALw_wcB
11 Jul 2025
DOPE and TAPE ep164 Jacqueline Wilmot
This episode of the Dope and Tape show features Jacqueline Wilkowski, a project manager at the NFPA Research Foundation. She discusses her career path, the role of the Research Foundation, and various research projects related to fire protection and firefighter safety. The NFPA Research Foundation conducts unbiased research to inform NFPA codes and standards. It's funded by federal grants and industry sponsors. Research projects cover a wide range of topics, including sprinkler systems, fire detection, firefighter safety, and emerging technologies like electric vehicles and energy storage.The foundation collaborates with other organizations like UL and NIST to avoid duplicating research efforts. Jacqueline's work involves managing and communicating research projects, as well as identifying future research needs. The show also touches on topics like the importance of getting young people interested in STEM, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the fun side of attending industry conferences like AFSA. Jacqueline's mom was a firefighter, which sparked her early interest in fire protection.The Research Foundation has no research facilities of its own and relies on partnerships with other organizations. A recent research project led to changes in NFPA 13 regarding obstructions around ESFR sprinklers. The foundation is currently working on research related to automatic storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and the challenges they pose for fire protection. There is ongoing research into the health effects of firefighting and the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE). Overall, this episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of fire protection research and the important work being done to improve safety for both firefighters and the public.
11 Jul 2025
DOPE and TAPE ep163 BLAZEMASTER
This episode of the Dope and Tape show is all about BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems. They bring on Ryan, a national sales manager for BlazeMaster, to answer common questions and clear up misconceptions. Lainey Headed up marketing, product, sales, and innovation strategy for Lubrizol Advanced Material's fire protection segment, including BlazeMaster(R) CPVC piping systems and freezemaster(TM) Antifreeze. While incompatible plasticizers in some wires can affect CPVC, it's generally not a major issue unless the wire is tightly wound around the pipe. NFPA prohibits any wires touching sprinkler pipes regardless of material. Never dry fit CPVC. It's unsafe and can lead to leaks.While air testing is sometimes done in cold climates, it's officially discouraged due to safety concerns. If done, it should be at low pressure (15 psi) and with precautions. UV light can cause discoloration but doesn't significantly affect the pipe's performance once installed. BlazeMaster chars but doesn't burn, and the smoke it produces is no more toxic than burning wood. Use a tubing cutter on older CPVC or in cold weather to avoid cracking. Ratchet cutters are fine for new pipe in warm conditions. It's perfectly fine to use Sharpies on BlazeMaster pipe. BlazeMaster is used globally, with major markets in Canada, the UK, Australia, and parts of Latin America. BlazeMaster aims to make the system easier to use, potentially with new joining methods and expanded applications.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
151,623
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.3 / 5
6 ratings
Spotify
4.8 / 5
17 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 76 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
98
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
51
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