What is the IP Code?
17.07.2025
- Light & Learn
The IP code (Ingress Protection) is an international standard that indicates the level of protection that electrical devices, such as luminaires, offer against the ingress of solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water). This classification is particularly important in spaces like bathrooms, gardens, buildings, or industrial areas where exposure to external elements can affect the operation and safety of the equipment.
What does the IP code mean?
The IPXX code consists of two digits:
- The first digit indicates the degree of protection against solid objects and dust.
- The second digit indicates resistance to water or moisture.
For example, a luminaire with an IP65 code offers maximum protection against dust and can withstand water jets from any direction.
Below is a table explaining the exact meaning of each protection level:
IP Code Table:
| FIRST DIGIT | SECOND DIGIT | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| IP | Protection against direct electrical contact | Protection against ingress of solid foreign objects | Protection against water |
| 0 | No protection | No protection | No protection |
| 1 | Hand | Objects (diameter ≥ 50 mm) | Goteo Vertically dripping water |
| 2 | Finger (diameter > 12 mm and length 80 mm) | Objects (diameter ≥ 12.5 mm) | Dripping water at an angle up to 15° from vertical |
| 3 | Tool | Objects (diameter ≥ 2.5 mm) | Spraying water at an angle up to 60° from vertical |
| 4 | Wire | Objects (diameter ≥ 1 mm) | Water splashes from all directions |
| 5 | Wire | Dust may enter but not in harmful quantities | Water jets from all directions |
| 6 | Wire | No dust ingress | Powerful water jets from all directions |
| 7 | — | — | Temporary immersion |
| 8 | — | — | Prolonged immersion (submersible equipment) under conditions specified by the manufacturer |
Examples of products by IP code
IP20
Protects against contact with fingers or large objects, but offers no water protection, making it ideal for indoor use such as living rooms or bedrooms.
IP44
Protects against small objects (wires, tools) and water splashes from any direction. Ideal for bathrooms (mirror areas) or porches.
IP54
Partial protection against dust (not harmful to the equipment) and splashes of water from any direction, suitable for covered outdoor areas or humid bathrooms.
IP65
Fully protected against dust and low-pressure water jets from any direction. Excellent for areas exposed to rain or direct splashes.
IP67
Fully protected against dust and suitable for temporary immersion in water (e.g., 30 minutes at 1 metre depth). Perfect for areas near swimming pools or very humid zones.
IP Code in Bathrooms
Choosing the correct IP Code in bathrooms is critical due to high humidity and risk of splashes. Areas are classified as follows:
- IPX7: Inside bath or shower.
- IPX5 (minimum): Above bath or shower up to 2.25 m.
- IPX4 (minimum): 60 cm around the bath or shower.
IP Code in Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor lighting also is recommended with different IP code depending on exposure:
- IP54: Porches or semi-covered areas.
- IP65: Open garden areas.
- IP67: Near swimming pools.
- IP68: Inside swimming pools (prolonged immersion).
Choosing the right IP code for your luminaires not only ensures greater durability but is essential for electrical safety in humid or outdoor environments. Whether installing lighting in a bathroom, garden or even a pool, make sure each luminaire has the appropriate level of protection.
IK Protection: Resistance to Impacts
In addition to IP, the IK protection level is another factor to consider, especially when choosing outdoor luminaires. This rating measures resistance to external mechanical impacts.
| IK Code | Impact (joules) | Product examples |
|---|---|---|
| IK10 | 20J | STEP XS, FOX, OLYMPIA |
| IK08 | 5J | STEP, DARK |
| IK06 | 1J | STEP S |
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