How to Spot Non-Compliant Fire Safety Products Online

In a world of next-day delivery and competitive pricing, it’s tempting to buy fire safety products online. But not all products marketed as “compliant” actually meet UK standards. In fact, the growth of online marketplaces has also made it easier for counterfeit and non-certified items to enter workplaces, rental properties, and even schools.

If you’re a business owner, responsible person, landlord or safety officer, knowing how to spot non-compliant fire safety products is essential, not only for protecting lives, but for staying legally compliant.

Why Compliance Matters

Fire safety products must be fit for purpose, and that means more than simply being functional. Items like fire extinguishers, fire doors, detectors and alarms must meet specific performance standards and be independently tested. If they fail during an emergency, the consequences could be catastrophic, and you could be held liable.

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the responsible person must ensure that fire precautions, including equipment, are “subject to a suitable system of maintenance and are maintained in an efficient state.”

This includes ensuring the product is:

• Correctly certified

• Installed and used as intended

• Sourced from a reputable supplier

 

 

CE Mark vs UKCA Mark: What’s the Difference?

Since the UK left the EU, the CE mark (Conformité Européenne) has been replaced domestically by the UKCA mark (UK Conformity Assessed). Both marks indicate that a product has been assessed to meet safety, health, and environmental protection standards.

In the UK:

• CE marked products are still recognised in limited circumstances during the transition period (varies by product type).

• For most fire safety equipment, UKCA marking is now required for goods placed on the market in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland).

• Northern Ireland continues to use CE or UKNI + UKCA marks, depending on the regulatory route.

Key tip: Check which mark is legally required for your product type and location, and avoid sellers who cannot provide clear marking or documentation.

Red Flags: How to Spot Fake or Non-Compliant Fire Safety Products

1. Too Cheap to Be True
   A branded fire extinguisher for half the price of others? Be cautious. Counterfeit products are often underpriced and may lack the internal components needed to function correctly.

2. No Certification Details Listed
   Every fire safety product should clearly state its certification body, test standard (e.g. BS EN3 for extinguishers), and manufacturing compliance. If this isn’t displayed on the product page or spec sheet, walk away.

3. Missing or Poor-Quality Labels
   Genuine certified equipment should have a clear, tamper-proof label showing:

   • UKCA or CE mark

   • Model number

   • Manufacturer name

   • Batch number or serial

   • Expiry date (where applicable)

4. No Third-Party Approval
   Independent testing is critical. Look for approvals from recognised bodies like:

   • BSI Kitemark

   • LPCB (Loss Prevention Certification Board)

   • UL or FM (for global standards)

   A product with only a UKCA or CE mark but no third-party testing may not meet performance expectations.

5. Unfamiliar Brands with No UK Presence
   If you can’t find a UK distributor, technical support, or traceable company behind the product, that’s a risk, especially for vital components like alarm panels or extinguishers.

6. No Installation or Maintenance Guidance
   Legitimate products include clear instructions and maintenance schedules. If these are missing or badly translated, it could indicate a substandard or imported item not intended for UK use.

 

 

Trusted Sources: Where to Buy Fire Safety Equipment Safely

• Use established UK suppliers and fire protection specialists
  Companies specialising in fire safety are more likely to provide certified, traceable products and offer installation and maintenance services.

• Check for third-party accreditations
  Trustworthy suppliers are often registered with BAFE, FIA, or other industry bodies.

• Avoid marketplaces without due diligence
  While Amazon, eBay, and similar platforms do offer legitimate listings, they’re also host to third-party sellers without regulation. Always research the seller, not just the platform.

• Ask for documentation before you buy
  A genuine supplier should be happy to provide:

  • Declaration of performance (DoP)

  • Certificates of conformity

  • Test reports (where applicable)

 

 

The Legal and Financial Risks of Non-Compliant Equipment

Using uncertified products could:

• Void your insurance policy

• Cause enforcement action by fire authorities

• Fail in a real fire, putting lives at risk

• Lead to fines or prosecution under fire safety law

 

 

Cutting Corners Isn’t Worth It

Fire safety is not the place to take shortcuts. That great deal online might save you a few pounds today, but it could cost you far more if the equipment fails when it matters most.

If you’re unsure whether your fire safety products are compliant, it’s worth speaking to a professional fire safety consultant or booking a compliance check.

For expert advice on fire protection and prevention products, contact Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy on 07585 896648