The IP code (Ingress Protection) shows how well an enclosure is protected against dust and water. It is defined in the international standard IEC 60529, and in Europe as EN 60529.
The code is written as IP followed by two digits. The first digit tells how well the enclosure protects against solid objects and dust. The second digit tells how well it protects against water. The higher the number, the better the protection.
An X in place of a digit means that property has not been tested, for example IPX4 (water only).
The two digits
First digit
Protection against solids and dust
- 0No protectionNo special protection against contact or objects.
- 1Objects larger than 50 mmProtects against large surfaces, like the back of a hand.
- 2Objects larger than 12.5 mmProtects against fingers and similar objects.
- 3Objects larger than 2.5 mmProtects against tools and thick wires.
- 4Objects larger than 1 mmProtects against most wires, screws and similar objects.
- 5Dust-protectedDust can get in, but not enough to affect safe operation.
- 6Dust-tightNo dust can get in.
Second digit
Protection against water
- 0No protectionNo special protection against water.
- 1Dripping waterVertically falling drops.
- 2Dripping water, tilted up to 15°Falling drops when the unit is tilted up to 15° from its normal position.
- 3Spraying waterWater sprayed at up to 60° from vertical.
- 4Splashing waterWater splashed from any direction.
- 5Water jetsWater from a nozzle (6.3 mm) from any direction.
- 6Powerful water jetsPowerful jets (12.5 mm nozzle) and heavy seas.
- 7Temporary immersionImmersion up to 1 m depth for 30 minutes.
- 8Continuous immersionBeyond 1 m, under conditions specified by the manufacturer.
Common ratings on rental equipment
IP20Indoor use onlyTypical for indoor fixtures, dimmers and most audio and video equipment. Keep dry.
IP44Splash-proofProtected against splashing water from any direction. Common for outdoor sockets and connectors.
IP54Dust and splashLimited dust ingress and splashing water. Sheltered outdoor use.
IP65Outdoor ratedDust-tight and protected against water jets. Can be used outdoors in rain.
IP67Temporary immersionDust-tight and survives short immersion, for example standing in puddles.
A product is only as protected as its weakest part. Cables, connectors and open covers must also have the right rating. Always check the specification of each product.