In this episode of The Sports Engineering Podcast, we spokewith Dr Tom Allen, Reader in Mechanical Engineering at Manchester Metropolitan University, about the realities of developing safety standards in sport and what it really takes to create meaningful change. We discuss the slow and oftencomplex process of updating standards and the varied perspectives of academics, industry, and governing bodies. The conversation also explores inclusive design, accessibility beyond elite sport, sustainability in equipment development, and why collaboration and constructive debate are essential for progress.