Editorials

IP CLASSIFICATION GUIDE

INGRESS PROTECTION

All lightfittings should have what's called an IP Rating. This determines what conditions the fitting can be installed in. It is particularly important for outdoor fittings.

The IP classification is made up of two digits, the first being protection from dust, and the second, protection from moisture.

Note also that manufacturers will often rate fittings as IP20 for durability reasons, not just to do with ingress of moisture and water. As such, all indoor fittings should be rated IP20 if they are of a material that is likely to rust.

First digit

Degrees of protection from dust

2 Protection against solid objects 12mm and less

3 Protection against solid objects 2.5mm and less

4 Protection against solid objects 1.0mm and less

5 Protection against harmful dust

6 Protection against any dust

Second digit

Degrees of protection from moisture

0 No protection

1 Protected against dripping water vertically

2 Protected against dripping water when tilted to max 15 degrees

3 Protected against rain

4 Protected against splashing water

5 Protected against low water pressure jets

6 Protected against heavy seas and waves

7 Protected against temporary immersion

8 Protected against long term submersion