How to Identify Fake ATEX-Certified Equipment: 5 Expert-Backed Tips

Published 16 May 2025

Hazardous Area Explosive Atmospheres

Hazardous Area Explosive Atmospheres

How to Identify Fake ATEX-Certified Equipment: 5 Expert-Backed Tips

In environments where explosive atmospheres are a real risk, the use of compliant, genuine ATEX-certified equipment is critical—not only for operational safety but also for regulatory adherence. Unfortunately, fake ATEX products are increasingly entering global markets, putting lives, assets, and reputations at serious risk.

Below are five practical and experience-based checks you can carry out to verify the authenticity of ATEX-labelled equipment.

1. Scrutinise the Equipment Label for Accuracy

Start with the most accessible detail: the equipment label.

Ask yourself:

  • Does the text look professionally formatted?

  • Is all the expected information present and clearly spaced?

  • Is the ATEX coding (e.g., II 2 G Ex d IIC T6 Gb) accurate and legible?

  • Does the CE or UKCA marking look legitimate and correctly placed?

Poor-quality printing, missing details, and odd spacing are early warning signs. Falsely certified manufacturers often neglect small but crucial formatting standards.

2. Match the Certification to the Equipment

Always verify the ATEX certification against the product details. A genuine certificate should:

  • Clearly match the model and product type

  • Be issued by a recognised Notified Body (EU) or UK Approved Body

  • Include verifiable certificate numbers

Use public databases or reach out directly to the issuing body to cross-check certifications. Any mismatch could indicate a forgery.

3. Look for Dual Certification (ATEX and IECEx)

Many reputable manufacturers obtain dual certification—both ATEX and IECEx—to support global market access. While not mandatory, this adds credibility.

If a product claims both certifications:

  • Verify each independently

  • Ensure consistency across all certification numbers and product details

Absence of dual certification doesn’t necessarily mean a product is fake, but its presence, when valid, often reinforces authenticity.

4. Evaluate the Equipment’s Build Quality

Poor craftsmanship is often a hallmark of fake equipment.

Ask:

  • Does the build quality reflect its stated rating?

  • Are the materials and finishes consistent with hazardous area requirements?

  • Are there visible defects or signs of substandard manufacturing?

Inconsistent quality or a “cheap” feel should prompt further due diligence. If the physical product raises concerns, do not install it without rigorous verification.

5. Investigate the Manufacturer’s Legitimacy

Conduct a background check on the manufacturer:

  • Visit the company’s website. Does it reflect a legitimate operation that manufactures ATEX-compliant products?

  • Is there sufficient technical documentation, product data, or contact information?

  • Are there press releases, case studies, or recognisable industry affiliations?

  • Have they been referenced by trusted suppliers?

A lack of transparency or absence from trusted directories should raise suspicion. Always use multiple sources to confirm legitimacy.

The threat of fake ATEX equipment is real and growing. However, by applying these five practical checks, ranging from label scrutiny to manufacturer due diligence, you can mitigate the risks and maintain full compliance in explosive atmospheres.

Stay vigilant, stay compliant, and always verify.

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THORNE & DERRICK

Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting. Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets. Thorne & Derrick is committed to building future-ready capabilities through apprenticeship programmes that nurture talent, drive performance, and close the skills gap in our industry.