What Is an IP Rating Failure and Why Does It Matter?

Electrical equipment installed in areas exposed to water, moisture, dust or other environmental conditions needs to be suitable for its location.

An Ingress Protection (IP) rating indicates how well an electrical enclosure or fitting protects against the entry of solid objects and moisture. If an enclosure, switch, isolator or fitting is damaged, its original level of protection may no longer be maintained.

An IP rating failure can create an electrical safety risk and may require the equipment to be repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician.

What Is an IP Rating? #

An IP rating, or Ingress Protection rating, is a classification used to indicate the level of protection provided by electrical equipment against the entry of solids and water.

An IP rating normally consists of two numbers.

For example:

IP65

• The first number relates to protection against solid objects and dust.
• The second number relates to protection against water.

The appropriate IP rating depends on the location, equipment and environmental conditions in which the electrical equipment is installed.

What Can Cause an IP Rating to Fail? #

Electrical equipment can lose its intended protection when it becomes damaged, deteriorated or incorrectly installed.

Common examples include:

• Cracked or broken switch covers
• Damaged weatherproof isolators
• Missing or damaged seals
• Broken outdoor power-point covers
• Damaged light fittings
• Loose or incorrectly fitted covers
• Deteriorated enclosures
• Water entering electrical equipment
• Equipment that is unsuitable for its installation location

Even relatively small amounts of damage can affect the protection provided by an electrical enclosure.

Where Are IP Ratings Particularly Important? #

IP protection is especially important where electrical equipment is exposed to environmental conditions such as water, moisture or dust.

Examples around residential rental properties include:

• Outdoor power points
• Pool and spa equipment
• Air-conditioning isolators
• Outdoor lighting
• Garden and landscape equipment
• Laundry areas
• Garages and sheds
• External switchgear
• Electrical equipment located near water

The required level of protection depends on the installation conditions and the particular equipment.

What Happens When an IP Rating Is Compromised? #

If an enclosure or fitting is damaged, water or other contaminants may enter electrical components.

This can potentially result in:

• Electrical faults
• Corrosion
• Short circuits
• Nuisance operation of safety switches (RCDs)
• Damage to electrical equipment
• Electric shock hazards

In some circumstances, damaged equipment may also expose parts that should normally be protected from contact.

What Do Electricians Look For During an Inspection? #

During an electrical safety inspection, a licensed electrician can visually assess electrical equipment for signs of damage, deterioration or conditions that could affect its suitability for the installation.

This may include checking:

• Outdoor switches and isolators
• Socket-outlets
• Electrical enclosures
• Covers and seals
• Equipment exposed to weather
• Signs of water ingress
• Cracks or physical damage
• Whether equipment appears suitable for its location

Energy Safe Victoria states that periodic electrical safety checks are intended, as far as reasonably practicable, to determine whether an installation and its equipment are in a safe condition for continued use.

IP Rating Problems in Victorian Rental Properties #

Victorian rental properties are required to have an electrical safety check conducted every two years by a licensed or registered electrician. The check covers the electrical installations, fixtures and fittings at the property.

An IP rating issue identified during an inspection may need further assessment or rectification depending on the condition of the equipment and the requirements applicable to the installation.

If electrical equipment is damaged or potentially unsafe, it should be assessed by a licensed electrician. Electrical repairs or modifications should not be attempted by tenants or unqualified persons.

Keep Your Rental Property Electrical Equipment Safe #

Regular inspections can help identify damaged electrical equipment before it develops into a more serious safety issue.

If you notice a cracked outdoor switch, damaged weatherproof power point, broken isolator cover or signs of water entering electrical equipment, arrange for it to be assessed by a licensed electrician.

Book an Electrical Safety Inspection #

Rental Safety Inspections provides professional electrical safety inspections for rental properties throughout Melbourne and surrounding areas.

Our licensed electricians inspect electrical installations, switchboards, safety switches (RCDs), fixtures and fittings to help identify electrical defects and safety issues that may require attention.

Contact Rental Safety Inspections today to arrange your electrical safety inspection.