The second article in Campus ATP examines two of the most important standards for ensuring the durability, safety, and reliability of lighting: protection against impacts (IK) and against dust and water intrusion (IP)
ARRE —30/4/2025— Outdoor lighting is subject to particularly demanding conditions: impacts, vandalism, dust, rain, salt exposure, and constant humidity. To ensure long-lasting performance and safety, two technical standards are essential: IK and IP protection ratings.
Both are part of international regulations and are used to evaluate the mechanical resistance and sealing capacity of luminaires and columns. This second article from Campus ATP explains what these ratings mean, how they are classified, and why their importance goes far beyond a simple number.
IK: protection against mechanical impacts
The IK rating, governed by IEC 62262, indicates the ability of an enclosure (such as a luminaire or column) to withstand physical impacts. The scale ranges from IK00 (no protection) to IK10, which corresponds to an impact resistance of 20 joules.
To put this into perspective, 20 joules is equivalent to the impact of a 5 kg object falling from a height of 40 cm. This rating is determined in laboratories using standardized devices that apply controlled impacts to the product.
ATP Lighting has developed solutions that exceed 50 joules of impact resistance, more than double the requirement for IK10. This level of strength—achieved through the use of high-performance engineered polymers—is referred to as IK10+, representing true anti-vandal capabilities, validated in complex urban environments.
ATP is also the only manufacturer in the world to hold IK10 certification from AENOR not only for its luminaires but also for its columns and access doors.
IP: protection against dust and water
The IP rating (Ingress Protection), defined by IEC 60529, specifies the level of an enclosure’s sealing against the entry of solid particles and liquids.
This rating is expressed using two digits:
- The first digit refers to protection against solids (0 to 6).
- The second digit refers to protection against liquids (0 to 9).
For example, an IP66 rating means the product is fully dust-tight and can withstand powerful water jets from any direction. This level of protection is critical in areas with harsh weather conditions or high salt exposure.
Unlike what is common in the industry, where only the optical compartment is protected, ATP applies IP66 protection to the entire enclosure of its luminaires. The company refers to this comprehensive approach as IP66+, and it is also AENOR certified, including columns and access doors.
In addition to IP66, ATP Lighting’s products are also certified with IP69 protection (IP66 + IP69), the highest level recognized under current regulations. This classification ensures exceptional resistance to high-pressure water jets, making it especially useful in installations that require intensive cleaning without risking water ingress.
Beyond the rating: real protection, real durability
IP and IK ratings are more than just technical figures: they reflect the real-world ability of a lighting system to withstand time, vandalism, and extreme environmental conditions. A project with excellent light distribution but poor sealing or low structural resistance is, in essence, a vulnerable one.
ATP’s commitment to achieving maximum physical strength and complete hermeticity stems from a clear goal: to develop maintenance-free products with guaranteed durability, even in the most demanding environments.
IP and IK: safety, reliability, and trust
Understanding IP and IK protection ratings is essential for any professional involved in designing, specifying, or managing outdoor lighting projects. Choosing luminaires with high-certified protection levels means operational reliability, reduced maintenance costs, and long-term sustainability.
Campus ATP will continue to explore these core concepts to promote more efficient, resilient, and environmentally responsible lighting.
Press contact:
Julio Aparicio
ATP Lighting
comunicacion@atpiluminacion.com
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