Welcome to the Intertek Podcast Network, Assurance in Action, your hub for quality insights and information from our Intertek experts. Learn what our people are saying about important industry trends ranging from food safety standards to supplier management and everything in between! With new and recurring guests, we are poised to provide you the knowledge needed to enhance your business processes, operations, and safety.
PFAS: The Great Zero-Fluorine Challenge in the Cosmetics Sector
PFAS, often called "forever chemicals," are changing the cosmetics industry. With new regulations already in effect in France and broader European restrictions on the horizon, brands need to prepare. In this episode, we'll explore what these changes mean for cosmetic formulations, testing, and regulatory compliance. Don't miss this timely discussion on one of the beauty industry's biggest challenges. Speakers: Franny Montador, Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Fragrance, Intertek Assuris Valentine Chauchat, Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Fragrance, Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Energy in Action Episode 1: Resilience in Fertilizer Supply Chains
In the inaugural episode of Energy in Action, Intertek Caleb Brett's new podcast series exploring the challenges and opportunities shaping global energy and commodity markets, host Nick Davies sits down with supply chain and commodity trading expert Hiti Taluja to discuss the evolving landscape of fertilizer supply chains. As Australia becomes increasingly reliant on imported fertilizers, the industry faces growing complexity driven by geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade dynamics, biosecurity requirements, ethical sourcing expectations, and heightened regulatory scrutiny. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience across fertilizers, chemicals, and bulk shipping logistics, Hiti shares practical insights into supplier due diligence, supply chain governance, compliance risk management, and the importance of building trusted, resilient sourcing relationships. Together, Nick and Hiti explore why transparency, verification, and independent assurance have become essential tools for organizations seeking to protect supply continuity and strengthen commercial performance in an increasingly volatile market. Listen in for expert perspectives on navigating risk, maintaining compliance, and building more resilient fertilizer supply chains for the future. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
The PACE Perspective | SA8000:2026, From Compliance to Continuous Performance
SA8000:2026 marks a significant shift in social compliance, moving beyond having systems in place to proving they work in practice. In this episode of The PACE Perspective Podcast, we break down the key changes to the standard, what they mean for suppliers and brands, and how organizations can evolve their due diligence programs to meet rising expectations. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
The PACE Perspective | Navigating Global Volatility: What It Means for Your Due Diligence Program
Global trade volatility is reshaping how supply chains operate and putting new pressure on due diligence programs. In this episode of The PACE Perspective Podcast, we explore what’s really happening on the ground, where programs start to break down, and how organizations can adapt through smarter, more targeted, and more engaged approaches to due diligence. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Inside Failure Analysis: From Breakdown to Prevention
In the second episode of our Chem & Pharma North America series, we explore the science behind failure analysis with Stephen French, our subject matter expert. From corrosion and fatigue to polymer cracking and material defects, Stephen breaks down how metallurgical investigations help uncover the true root cause when a component does not perform as expected. You’ll hear real-world examples, learn about the advanced analytical techniques used during investigations, and discover how deeper material insights help prevent repeat failures, improve safety, and support smarter engineering decisions. Speaker: Stephen French, PE, Senior Failure Analyst/Engineer, Intertek Allentown Laboratory Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Digital Capability Through Intertek Academy
In the first episode of our Intertek Academy podcast series , we explore how digital learning platforms are helping organizations strengthen internal expertise, stay aligned with evolving standards, and build confidence across teams and global operations. Joined by Angelique Brouillard, Program Manager for Risk, IT and Training, AI Innovation for Business Assurance , this short 6-minute conversation highlights why trusted, on-demand learning is becoming essential for quality, risk, sustainability, and operational resilience. Tune in to learn more! Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
VOC Emission Testing of Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is widely used in modern construction, but its chemical emissions can impact indoor air quality and human health. In this episode, we explore the key VOCs of concern, how regulations are shaping the industry, and the analytical methods used to measure emissions. From micro-chamber testing to advanced techniques like TD-GC/MS, discover how data-driven insights help ensure safer materials and compliance. Explore Intertek’s analytical and chemical testing capabilities: Chemical and Material Testing Analysis (Allentown, PA) 🎙️Guest Speaker Jenan Elias Scientist, Organic Analysis Group, Intertek Jenan Elias specializes in VOC and materials emission testing, with over a decade of experience in GC-MS method development for consumer goods and construction materials. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
MoCRA in Motion: Current Recap, New Draft Guidance, and What’s Coming Next
A major shift is reshaping the U.S. cosmetics industry. In the latest episode of Assurance in Action , we dive into the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA) and what it means for brands, manufacturers, importers, and distributors. Joined by Intertek Assuris experts Ashli and Alexandra, we unpack the key requirements, risks, and opportunities to help you understand requirements and maintain compliance. Ashli Span , Project Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Alexandra Minich , Toxicologist, Program Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
EDGE Certification: From Workplace Values to Measurable Business Impact
In this episode, David Muil, VP of Sustainability at Intertek, sits down with Elma Christian, Global Business Development Director at Intertek, to unpack how workplace equity and inclusion are evolving from aspirational values into a strategic, measurable business advantage. The discussion explores EDGE Certification, one of the world’s leading standards for workplace equity and inclusion, and why organizations are increasingly viewing it as a strategic investment with clear ROI rather than a compliance or communications exercise. Listeners will gain insights into how EDGE uses data, third-party verification, and KPIs to drive measurable progress, reduce talent and governance risks, strengthen ESG credibility, and enhance long-term business resilience. A practical conversation for leaders, sustainability professionals, and board-level stakeholders looking to understand how equity, inclusion, and sustainability intersect—and how EDGE helps turn intention into impact. Speakers : David Muil, VP of Sustainability at Intertek Elma Christian, Global Business Development Director at Intertek Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Offshore Wind: Applying Circular Economy Principles to Wind Power Infrastructure
Wind power is often seen as inherently sustainable. But as the industry scales, new questions emerge about materials, design, and what happens to wind turbines at the end of their life. In this episode, Intertek experts explore how circular economy thinking is reshaping wind energy, from the use of low-carbon and recycled steel to advances in recyclable turbine blades and the role of artificial reefs in supporting marine biodiversity. The conversation looks at how innovation, engineering, and circular design can help the wind sector reduce environmental impact while building long-term resilience. Speakers: Richard Sargeant- Subject Matter Expert for Offshore Wind, Intertek David Muil- VP ATIC Sustainability, Intertek Business Assurance Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
A Sneak Peek at Intertek’s Virtual Conference on Sustainable Packaging Compliance
In this episode, Chloe Lay and Ashli Span from Intertek Assuris set the stage for an upcoming virtual conference on sustainable packaging compliance. The discussion highlights the growing role of biopolymers and recycled materials in packaging and underscores the critical importance of ensuring these materials are both safe and compliant with evolving regulations. Designed for professionals across regulatory affairs, sustainability, R&D, and quality, the episode explores why these topics matter today, how they influence day-to-day decision-making, and what listeners can expect from the conference sessions ahead. Event details can be found at: https://www.intertek.com/events/2026/sustainable-packaging-compliance-biopolymers-recycled-materials-safe-use/ Speakers: Ashli Span , Project Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Chloe Lay , Project Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Cybersecurity Demystified: UK Govt initiatives to strengthen cyber resilience in the UK
In the third episode of our ‘Cyber Security De-mystified Podcast Series’, Steve Ramsden, President Information Security at Intertek meets with guest speaker Irfan Hemani -Deputy Director for UK Cyber Security & Resilience Policy at Department for Science, Innovation and Technology – DSIT to talk about UK Govt initiatives aiming to strengthen cyber resilience and what this means for UK organisations. Speakers: Steven Ramsden: President of Information Security at Intertek Irfan Hemani : Deputy Director for UK Cyber Security & Resilience Policy, DSIT Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Beyond the Bin – Expert Insights on Recycling Traceability
In this episode of Expert Insights, Ashli Span and special guest Tommy Savarese shake up things up with a conversation that goes beyond traditional regulatory talk. During this discussion, Ashli and Tommy explore the real world of recycling: how it works, where it’s headed, and why it matters for quality, safety, sustainability, and more. Whether you’re in compliance, product development, sustainability, or just curious about what happens after products hit the bin, this episode uncovers the unseen complexities and growing opportunities behind recycling systems around the world. Tune in to get a fresh perspective on recycling, well beyond what you expect. Presenters: Ashli Span, Project Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Thomas Savarese, Compliance Manager, Regulatory Market Access, Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Understanding CPSC E-Filing and Children’s Product Compliance
Chemical regulations are only part of the story. In our latest episode, Bob Trimble, Program Manager for Global Restricted Substances at Intertek Assuris, sits down with Anju, an expert in U.S. consumer product safety, to explore how CPSC e-filing is changing the compliance landscape, specifically for children’s products. From documentation requirements to digital reporting, they unpack the challenges companies face and share insights to help you stay ahead of evolving safety expectations. Tune in to learn how to simplify compliance and protect your brand’s reputation in a more transparent, data-driven future. Speakers: Robert Trimble, Program Manager – Global Restricted Substances, Intertek Assuris Anju Kang, Consultant – Risk Strategy & Management, Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Food safety in Fast-Paced QSR Environments
In this episode we explore the topic that affects millions of meals served every day, managing food safety and hygiene under pressure in the quick service restaurant industry and the solutions Intertek provides to help those businesses protect their brand. Speakers: Catherine Beare - Regional Director Intertek UK and Iberia Karen Whiting – Director Retail, Intertek Business Assurance UKI Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Cybersecurity Demystified: Why Cybersecurity Matters in the Food Sector
In the second in our podcast series ‘Cybersecurity Demystified’ we shine a spotlight on cybersecurity threats in the food sector, highlighting how even beer pumps can be hacked, and solutions to mitigate the risk. Speakers: Deborah Matthews – Business Development Manager, Intertek Business Assurance UKI Steven Ramsden – President Information Security, Intertek Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
EU Plastic Regulations: Fostering Circular Economy Practices with ISCC PLUS
In this episode we explore how EU plastic regulations are driving the shift toward a circular economy and how ISCC PLUS certification helps businesses ensure traceability, compliance, and sustainability across the plastics value chain. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
Cybersecurity Demystified: Why Cybersecurity Is More Than Just An IT Issue
In the first of our ‘Cybersecurity de-mystified series, we're talking about why cybersecurity is not just an IT problem. It's everyone's responsibility and it's central to building trust and resilience. Speakers: Matthew Ruff, BDM Intertek Business Assurance UKI Steven Ramsden, Intertek President – Information Security Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
The World of Water Footprinting Analysis
Water is at the heart of sustainability, but do you know the true impact of your water use? In our latest episode, we dive into the world of water footprinting analysis, exploring what it is, how it compares to carbon footprinting, and how business can measure, manage and reduce their water impacts across their supply chains and products. Join our Sustainability experts as they share insights, real-world examples, and why water footprinting is becoming an essential tool for companies navigating climate, ESG, and resource challenges. Tune in now and discover how smarter water strategies can drive both sustainability and business resilience. Speakers: Catherine Beare, Regional Director - Business Assurance (UK & Iberia) Lara Dresser, Sustainability Consultant – Intertek Assuris Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
How Businesses Use Certification to Demonstrate Sustainability
In this episode of Assurance in Action , our host David Muil explores how organizations use certification to turn sustainability commitments into measurable proof. Discover how certification supports compliance with global regulations, strengthens credibility with stakeholders, and drives continuous improvement across industries from manufacturing and packaging to food production. Tune in to learn why certification is more than a badge. It is a strategic tool that helps businesses build trust, resilience, and long-term value in an increasingly transparent world. Follow us on- Intertek's Assurance In Action || Twitter || LinkedIn .
