Importance of IP Rating
The ingress protection (IP) code represents the protection against dust, solid objects and moisture provided by the luminaire enclosure.
Fixtures which are used in a outdoor, bathroom or wet environment should have an IP rating which is sufficient enough to stop the ingress of both water & dust.
See below diagram which illustrates what digit represents the extent of protection against the ingress of water & dust. The higher the value of digit the great protection.
Its important to know what IP rating you need, whether fixtures are for domestic or commercial usage.
Low IP Rating
Indoor areas which have virtually no exposure to water / dust, IP20 & IP44 is sufficient for areas such as bedrooms or living rooms.
Both IP65 & IP44 depending on area of application are suitable for indoor and outdoors.
High IP Ratings
High IP rating is required in areas where there is a fixture can be exposed to water / dust. The higher IP Rating to the more protection.
Zone Lighting
Electrical appliances have safety regulations to meet in bathrooms.
See below image which you can use as a guide to select appropriate fixtures IP Ratings in bathroom to ensure they meet safety standards.
The I.E.E Wiring regulations (BS 7671:2001 Section 601) has made these mandatory requirements for areas containing a shower or bath. These safety standards are requirements for each zone based on their perceived degree of risk of electric shock.
Zone 1 – IP65 or above – areas directly above the bath or shower
Zone 2 – IP44 or above – areas including next to the bath & any windows
Zone 3 – IP20 or above - rest of the bathroom, as there always is some water (vapour) in a bathroom