o Enpro - The Problem With Counterfeit PPE & How to Identify Genuine Mascot and Petzl Products

The Problem With Counterfeit PPE & How to Identify Genuine Mascot and Petzl Products

Published on December 03, 2025
Petzl Distribution Museum Collection
Petzl Distribution Museum Collection

As Africa's industries continue to grow, so does the demand for reliable protective gear. From mining and manufacturing to construction, energy, and logistics, the need for genuine, certified Personal Protective Equipment has never been greater. Unfortunately, this rising demand has also attracted suppliers offering counterfeit and sub-standard products.

We partner directly with certified manufacturers like MASCOT® WORKWEAR Deutschland and Petzl Professional to supply only certified, original equipment. As we close the year, it is important to highlight why counterfeit PPE is a serious safety threat and how your organization can confidently identify genuine products.

Why Counterfeit PPE Is a Major Safety Risk

Counterfeit PPE may look similar to original brands, but it does not meet the strict safety and performance standards required in high-risk work environments. These imitations often fail within weeks or during critical operations, exposing workers to:

High fall risk during working-at-height

Chemical burns, cuts, and abrasions

Electrical hazards

Exposure to extreme weather

Foot injuries due to weak soles or steel caps

Mechanical failure during rescue operations

The cost of accidents caused by fake PPE far outweighs the savings from buying low-cost alternatives.

Why Genuine Mascot and Petzl Products Stand Out

Both brands are internationally recognized leaders in the PPE sector:

Mascot International (Denmark)

Certified by European Standards (EN)

High durability fabrics

Triple-stitched seams

Quality-tested workwear built for mining, construction, logistics, agriculture, and heavy engineering

Petzl (France)

Global leader in fall-protection and technical equipment

Used in rescue, climbing, working-at-height, and rope-access industries

Product lines comply with EN, ANSI, and CE standards

Every item undergoes strict testing before release

These manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to ensure maximum worker safety.

How to Identify Genuine Mascot Workwear

Here are key indicators:

  1. Fabric Quality

Mascot uses premium materials like

CORDURA reinforced fabric

Stretchable elastic blends

High-quality reflective strips Counterfeit items usually feel lighter or overly stiff.

  1. Stitching & finishing

Genuine Mascot garments have:

Even, clean stitching

Reinforced knee and elbow areas

Double or triple seams

Fake versions often show loose threads or uneven stitching.

  1. Product Labels

Original Mascot products include:

A detailed inner label with washing instructions

EN standard icons

Size chart and material composition The logo is sharp, not printed cheaply.

  1. QR Code or Barcode Traceability

Mascot products can be traced by scanning the product tag. Counterfeit items lack traceable coding.

How to Identify Genuine Petzl Products

  1. Serial Numbers

Every Petzl item (harness, lanyard, carabiner, helmet, rope) has a unique serial number. Counterfeits often have missing or repeated numbers.

  1. Clear Certification Marks

Look for:

CE

EN standard (e.g. EN 361 for harnesses)

Key compliance markings

Fake equipment usually prints these inaccurately or not at all.

  1. Petzl Hologram & Branding

Original Petzl packaging includes:

High-quality printing

Holographic security markings

Instruction manuals in multiple languages

Counterfeit ones have blurry printing or low-quality packaging.

  1. Product Construction

For example:

Carabiners should have smooth finishes and consistent locking

Helmets should feel sturdy, not hollow or extremely lightweight

Lanyards should have strong, even stitching

If the product feels fragile or unfinished, it is likely not authentic.

Why Buying from Authorized Distributors Matters

Working with certified partners like ourselves ensures you get:

✔ Genuine Mascot and Petzl products

✔ Full manufacturer warranty

✔ Traceability and proof of authenticity

✔ Correct safety certifications

✔ After-sales product support

✔ Access to the latest models and product updates

Unverified suppliers cannot guarantee this.

How We can help Protect Your Workforce

As an official distributor of certified brands in Africa, we guarantee:

Direct sourcing from Mascot International and Petzl International

Industry-specific guidance on the correct PPE

Competitive pricing and long-term supply agreements

Reliable delivery and replacement support

Safety consultations and product training

Our goal is simple: to ensure your team is always equipped with gear that protects, performs, and lasts.

Safety Begins With Authenticity

Safety is not an area where businesses can afford shortcuts. As we conclude 2025 and prepare for a new year, ensure your team is protected with genuine, certified PPE. Counterfeit products may be cheaper today but they cost far more in the long run.

For verified Mascot and Petzl gear, or to schedule a safety assessment for your organization, contact us today.

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