IK classification: Importance and selection of the right degree of protection for luminaires
What is the IK classification according to EN 62262?
The IK classification is an internationally recognised standard for assessing the mechanical impact resistance of enclosures for electrical equipment. It indicates how resistant a product is to mechanical impacts such as shocks, vandalism or accidental force. The standard was developed to ensure that electrical and electronic devices - depending on the environment in which they are used - have an appropriate level of protection. Electricians and technical planners must take these values into account in order to ensure the durability and safety of lighting systems.
The IK class of a luminaire is determined on the basis of the maximum impact energy that the luminaire can withstand without losing its specified IP protection rating. These values are defined in the EN 62262 standard. The standardised test methods for determining the mechanical resistance of electrical equipment are defined in standard EN 60068-2-75. For luminaire housings, the luminaire standard EN 60598-1 specifies a minimum protection rating of IK03, while the transparent cover must have an impact resistance of at least IK class IK02.
IK class: The meaning of the different IK codes
The IK classification is divided into the protection levels IK00 to IK11. The respective value indicates the impact energy that the product can withstand without losing its IP protection rating. This categorisation is carried out in fixed levels that enable reliable comparability. The values according to EN 62262 and EN 60068-2-75 are defined as follows:
| IK class according to EN 62262 | Impact energy | Test according to EN 60068-2-75 |
|---|---|---|
| IK00 | - | - |
| IK01 | 0,14 Joule | 56 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK02 | 0,20 Joule | 80 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK03 | 0,35 Joule | 140 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK04 | 0,50 Joule | 200 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK05 | 0,70 Joule | 280 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK06 | 1,0 Joule | 400 mm fall height, 0,25 kg mass |
| IK07 | 2,0 Joule | 400 mm fall height, 0,5 kg mass |
| IK08 | 5,0 Joule | 400 mm fall height, 1,7 kg mass |
| IK09 | 10,0 Joule | 200 mm fall height, 5 kg mass |
| IK10 | 20,0 Joule | 400 mm fall height, 5 kg mass |
| IK11 | 50,0 Joule | 500 mm fall height, 10 kg mass |
Table: Overview according to EN 62262:2022 and EN 60068-2-75:2014
The impact resistance is determined in accordance with EN 60068-2-75 using defined test methods and devices.
The test is carried out using special test equipment, which differs depending on the required impact resistance of the luminaire. However, the following analogy can be used to illustrate the impact energy: An IK08 luminaire, for example, can withstand an impact energy of 5 joules, which corresponds to the impact of a 2 kg ball falling onto the housing from a height of 25 cm. An IK10 light, on the other hand, can withstand an energy of 20 joules, which is comparable to the impact of a 5 kg ball from a height of 40 cm.
For values above 50 joules of impact energy, there is no official classification according to EN 62262, but in some cases an increased test is recommended, although the classes IK12, IK13, IK14, IK15 and IK16 or higher do not officially exist according to the EN standard.
IK11+: Protection up to 150 Joule
NORKA tests the impact resistance up to 150 joules and marks this with the indication IK11+ to make clear that the test exceeds class IK11. This test is carried out analogue to the methods specified in EN 60068-2-75.
Our LED luminaires with class IK11+
IK classification for luminaires: Why impact resistance is key
The impact resistance of luminaires is particularly important in demanding environments such as industrial plants, access routes, public transport and street lighting. A high IK class ensures that the lighting remains functional even in the event of accidental or intentional damage.
Luminaires in passageways, railway stations, prisons or car parks are often exposed to deliberate violence. Here, IK10 or IK11 luminaires are particularly recommended to minimise long-term maintenance costs and safety risks. In industrial environments, on the other hand, luminaires not have to withstand vandalism, but also accidental impacts from vehicles or machinery.
The IK class also plays a role in the selection of materials for the luminaire housing. Metal housings or resistant plastics such as polycarbonate or tempered glass are common materials to ensure high impact resistance.
Choosing the right IK classes: What should you look out for?
Several factors play a role in selecting the right IK class:
Place of use
Indoor luminaires usually require a lower IK classification than outdoor luminaires or emergency lighting.
Risk potential
In areas with high mechanical impacts or a risk of vandalism, luminaires with a high IK class are required.
Combination with IP protection ratings
A high IK classification does not necessarily mean that a luminaire is also protected against dust or water. Both the IP protection rating and IK class must therefore be taken into account during planning.
Standards and regulations
The impact resistance of luminaires is tested in accordance with the EN 60068-2-75 standard, which specifies standardised tests to determine the protection levels.
Depending on the location of use, other standards and regulations must also be complied with.
High IK classes are particularly advantageous in areas that are accessible to the general public and at risk of vandalism.
Conclusion: Why the correct IK classification is crucial for luminaires
The IK classification plays an important role in the planning and installation of lighting systems. Correct selection of the IK class increases operational safety, reduces maintenance costs and ensures that the lighting remains functional in areas with potential mechanical impact.
Building owners, installation companies and technical planning offices should therefore always take into account the requirements of the respective area of application and be guided by the specifications of EN 62262.
Particularly in areas at risk of vandalism and industrial environments, robust luminaires with a high IK class are a key factor for longevity and cost-effectiveness. Well thought-out planning not only helps to reduce repair costs, but also ensures reliable lighting in safety-critical areas.
Our lighting solutions: LED luminaires with impact class IK11 or higher
You can find our NORKA lighting solutions for particularly high-risk areas here:
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