IP Ratings, Explained: What They Mean for Outdoor Lighting & Tools

When you’re working on a site or outside in the elements, your tools and lights need to keep up — rain or shine. That’s where IP ratings come in.

If you’ve ever seen IP44, IP65 or IP67 on a label and wondered what it actually means, this quick guide will clear it up. And just like your tools, we’ll keep it practical and no-nonsense.

🔎 What is an IP Rating?

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It’s a standard used to show how well a product is protected from dust and water.

An IP rating has two numbers:

• The first digit = protection against solids (like dust)

• The second digit = protection against liquids (like rain or splashes)

The higher the number, the better the protection.

🧱 First Digit – Protection from Solids

💧 Second Digit – Protection from Liquids

🧰 Common IP Ratings You’ll See at Town Tools:

✅ IP44 – Splash Resistant

• Protected from solid objects >1mm and water splashes from all directions.

• Great for tools that might get a bit wet but aren’t exposed for long.

🛠️ Example: Basic workshop lights or tools used indoors near water.

✅ IP65 – Rainproof & Dustproof

• Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets.

• Ideal for outdoor lighting and site tools.

🛠️ Example: LED tripod lights, outdoor extension reels

✅ IP67 – Fully Weatherproof

• Dust-tight and protected from immersion in water up to 1 metre.

• Perfect for tools and lights exposed to wet or muddy conditions.

🛠️ Example: Specialist kit used in very wet conditions or underground

⚡ Why It Matters for You

Choosing tools and lighting with the right IP rating keeps you:

• Working safely in bad weather

• Protecting your investment from damage

• Complying with site safety standards

🧠 Quick Tip:

Still unsure? Here’s a cheat:

• Indoors or sheltered? IP44 is fine

• Outdoors in UK weather? Go for IP65

• Heavy site exposure or flood risk? Pick IP67

Whether you’re lighting up a muddy site or working in a dusty loft, knowing your IP ratings means fewer breakdowns and safer working.