IP Ratings — IEC 60529

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It is followed by two digits (and optionally a letter).

First digit — solid objects / dust

0	1	2	3	4	5	6
none	≥50 mm	≥12.5 mm	≥2.5 mm	≥1 mm	dust protection	dust-tight

Second digit — water

0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9K
none	dripping water	dripping water at 15°	spray	splashing	jet	powerful jet	immersion	continuous immersion	high-pressure washer

Note: the 9/9K rating (hot high-pressure/steam-jet washdown) is not actually part of IEC 60529 itself — it originates from ISO 20653 / DIN 40050-9 (road vehicles) and is commonly quoted alongside IP codes, but is strictly a separate classification.

IP2X is the practical minimum requirement for accessible parts of a distribution board or switchgear cabinet: protection against the ingress of a finger (≥ 12.5 mm) to live parts. A cabinet that is rated IP2X on the outside must still not allow direct finger contact with live parts once a door or panel has been opened.

Commonly used combinations

IP20 — dry indoor spaces (office, living room)
IP44 — bathroom zone 2, terrace
IP54 — workshops
IP55 — greenhouses (§705), outdoor enclosures
IP65 — façade luminaires, splash-proof
IP67 — temporarily submersible
IP69K — food industry, car wash bays

IP Ratings (IEC 60529)

IP Ratings — IEC 60529

First digit — solid objects / dust

Second digit — water

Commonly used combinations

Further reading