Bright Lights, Hidden Dangers: Why This “Explosion-Proof” Lamp Could Put You at Risk

Published 29 Sep 2025

The Hidden Dangers of Faulty “Explosion-Proof” Lighting

The EU Safety Gate issued a recall of the Unicorn EX200A LED flood lamp, a product sold online, including on platforms like Alibaba. On the surface, this large (30 × 40 cm) lamp promised reliable illumination in potentially explosive atmospheres. But beneath the glossy specifications lay a dangerous design flaw that could have deadly consequences.

Official Alert Reference: EU Safety Gate – Unicorn LED Flood Lamp Recall

key details

How Design Flaws Put Workers at Risk

The issue wasn’t with the brightness of the lamp—it was with its construction. Testing revealed that:

• Housing connections were insecure – The junction between the lamp’s housing and LED parts wasn’t properly sealed, allowing internal ignition to spread.

• Cable entry plugs were poorly secured – This flaw made it possible for sparks or flames to ignite surrounding explosive gases.

In simple terms: in environments where flammable vapours exist, this lamp could become a trigger for disaster, leading to burns, fires, or even explosions.

Why Compliance Matters in Hazardous Zones

The Unicorn EX200A did not comply with:

• The EU ATEX Directive, which governs safety standards for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

• The European Standard EN 60079-1, which sets requirements for flameproof enclosures.

By failing these benchmarks, the lamp was unfit for professional use in hazardous zones.

A Dangerous Marketplace

One of the most concerning aspects is that this product was available online to a global audience. Many buyers may not have the resources or expertise to verify compliance with strict EU safety standards. What looks like a bargain piece of equipment can, in reality, be a future fatality.

Checking certifications before purchase

Authorities have ordered the recall of all Unicorn EX200A units from end users. The recall serves as a reminder that even in regulated markets, unsafe products slip through the cracks.

If you or your organisation has purchased this model, stop using it immediately. Contact the seller or distributor for instructions on how to return the product.

key takeaways from this Recall

1. Verify certifications – Always ensure that explosion-proof equipment is properly certified for your region. Look for authentic ATEX or IECEx markings.

2. Buy from trusted suppliers – Avoid generic or low-cost listings on online marketplaces for critical safety equipment.

3. Stay updated on recalls – Check the EU Safety Gate alerts or similar regulatory databases regularly.

⚠️ The takeaway: In high-risk environments, there’s no room for compromise. What may appear to be a cost-saving purchase could end up costing much more in safety, compliance, and most importantly human lives.

the EU Safety Gate

The EU Safety Gate is the European Union’s rapid alert system for dangerous non-food products. It allows national authorities across Europe to quickly share information about hazardous items found on the market, from electrical equipment to toys and personal protective gear. By coordinating recalls, bans, and other corrective actions, the Safety Gate helps prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers and professionals, while ensuring that risks are communicated swiftly across all EU member states.

Thorne & Derrick: Your Trusted ATEX Partner

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.

The Bottom Line:

• Non-compliant ATEX equipment kills.

• Always demand proof of certification—never compromise.

Further Reading