IP (Ingress Protection) Ratings Explained

The system for identifying how well a lighting fixture is sealed, is called the IP Code. IP stands for Ingress Protection, and it is made up of two digits.

Each digit refers to a different aspect of enclosure protection. The first digit refers to the level of protection against solid objects entering a device, and the second digit refers to the level of protection against water. For example, if a product is rated IP68, it is completely dust tight and can withstand complete and constant immersion in water, whereas if a product is rated IP00, it is basically an open product and has no protection against objects and water. See below for the definitions established for each digit.

First Digit

Object size protected against — Effective against:

0 — No protection against contact and ingress of objects.

1 > 50mm — Large surfaces of the body, but no protection against deliberate contact with a body part.

2 > 12.5mm — Fingers or similar objects.

3 > 2.5mm — Tools, thick wires, etc.

4 > 1mm — Most wires, screws, etc.

5 Dust Protected — Ingress of dust is not entirely prevented, but it must not enter in sufficient quantity; complete protection against contact.

6 Dust Tight — No ingress of dust; complete protection against contact.

Second Digit

Water level protected against — Effective against:

0 — No protection against water

1 Dripping Water — Dripping water

2 Dripping Water — Dripping water when enclosure is tilted up to 15°

3 Spraying Water — Water falling as a spray at angles up to 60° from the vertical.

4 Splashing Water — Water splashing against the enclosure from any direction.

5 Water Jets — Water projected by a nozzle against enclosure from any direction.

6 Powerful Water Jets — Water projected in powerful jets against the enclosure.

7 Immersion up to 1m — Ingress of water in harmful quantity shall not be possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time (up to 1 m of submersion).

8 Immersion beyond 1m — The equipment is suitable for continuous immersion in water under conditions which shall be specified by the manufacturer.  NOTE: Normally, this will mean that the equipment is hermetically sealed. However, with certain types of equipment, it can mean that water can enter but only in such a manner that produces no harmful effects.