IP00 vs IP15
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP15 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 5). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP15 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and water jets (6.3 mm nozzle).
IP00 offers no protection against solid objects or moisture. It is suitable only for indoor, climate-controlled environments where the equipment is fully enclosed within another protective housing.
With IP15, an enclosure receives protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against water jets. Water projected by a 6.3 mm nozzle against the enclosure from any direction shall have no harmful effects.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 1 with second-digit (liquid) level 5.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP15
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP15
5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP15
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP15
Yes
Submersible
IP00
No
IP15
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP15
Yes
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP15)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP15 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP15
Level 5 — Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP15 provides "Water Jets (6.3 mm nozzle)" (level 5). IP15 is 5 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP15 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP15 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.