IP00 vs IP12
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP00 and IP12 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 0 vs 1) and liquid protection (level 0 vs 2). IP00 is rated for no protection and no protection, while IP12 provides > 50 mm — back of hand and dripping water at 15° tilt.
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.
Designed for environments requiring protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm and protection against vertically falling drops of water when the enclosure is tilted up to 15° from its normal position., IP12 is an IEC 60529 code combining solid level 1 with liquid level 2.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP12
1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP00
0 — No Protection
IP12
2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
Dust-tight
IP00
No
IP12
No
Water-jet resistant
IP00
No
IP12
No
Submersible
IP00
No
IP12
No
Outdoor suitable
IP00
No
IP12
No
The exact difference (IP00 vs IP12)
Solid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP12
Level 1 — > 50 mm — Back of Hand
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP12 provides "> 50 mm — Back of Hand" (level 1). IP12 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP00
Level 0 — No Protection
IP12
Level 2 — Dripping Water at 15° Tilt
IP00 provides "No Protection" (level 0), while IP12 provides "Dripping Water at 15° Tilt" (level 2). IP12 is 2 levels higher.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP12 offers higher overall protection than IP00. Choose IP12 for harsher environments; IP00 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.