IP Ratings & Wet/Damp Location Lighting, Explained
A fixture rated for a dry office will fail fast in a wash bay or freezer. IP ratings and wet/damp location listings tell you what a fixture can survive. This guide decodes them so you buy the right protection.
An IP rating's two digits describe protection from solids (dust) and liquids (water). For wet, dusty, and washdown areas, choose sealed vapor-tight fixtures rated IP65 or better.
Reading an IP Rating
- First digit (0 to 6): protection from dust. 6 is dust-tight.
- Second digit (0 to 9): protection from water. 5 resists jets, higher resists immersion or washdown.
Alongside IP, fixtures carry dry, damp, or wet location listings for code compliance.
Matching Rating to Space
| Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Dry office / shop | Standard dry-location fixture |
| Damp garage / covered outdoor | Damp-rated or sealed |
| Wash bay / kitchen / barn | Vapor-tight, IP65+ |
| Freezer / washdown plant | Vapor-tight, IP66+, low-temp rated |
Where It Applies
Sealed ratings drive the food processing, cold storage, and farm plans. The Hawkeye and Patriot guide covers the fixtures.
Get the Right Protection
We will match the seal rating to your environment so fixtures last.
Shop Vapor Tight Lighting Call (512) 843-1383Last updated: June 2026. Consult local codes and a licensed professional for your specific project.
