What Are IK Ratings in LED Lighting? A Guide to Impact Protection

When it comes to LED lighting for outdoor, industrial, or public use, IP ratings for water and dust protection are just part of the equation. Physical durability matters too—especially in harsh or high-traffic environments. That’s where IK ratings come in. They measure how well lighting fixtures withstand mechanical impact, helping you choose lighting that’s not just bright, but built to last.

IK Ratings at a Glance

• What they protect against: Physical impact (mechanical shock)
• Complementary to: IP ratings (dust/water protection)
• Ideal for: Industrial zones, outdoor areas, vandal-prone or high-traffic locations
• Scale: IK00 (no impact resistance) to IK10 (20-joule impact resistance)

What Is an IK Rating?

IK stands for "Impact Protection", a standard defined in IEC 62262. It classifies how much mechanical force an enclosure (like an LED fixture) can withstand without internal damage or safety risk.

IK vs. IP Ratings

A fixture with high IP but low IK may resist rain but break on impact. Durable lighting requires both ratings.

How Are IK Ratings Tested?

IK ratings are determined using impact tests defined by the IEC 62262 standard. Each fixture is struck five times at different vulnerable points using a calibrated hammer.

Pass criteria:

• No exposure of live parts
• No sharp edges or safety hazards
• Functionality remains intact
• IP rating remains valid (if applicable)

Impact Energy Scale

• Measured in: joules (J)
• The higher the rating, the stronger the resistance

IK Rating Chart and Real-World Examples

Why IK Ratings Matter

Neglecting IK ratings can lead to broken fixtures, increased costs, and safety issues. Here’s why they’re essential:

• Durability: High IK-rated fixtures use reinforced materials like polycarbonate or die-cast aluminum.
• Lower Maintenance: Withstand impacts from tools, vehicles, or weather debris.
• Safety Compliance: Prevents exposed wiring or shattered parts.
• Vandal Resistance: IK08+ is recommended for public and high-risk areas.
• Environment Fit: Proper IK selection avoids under- or over-specifying lighting protection.

IK + IP Ratings: A Smart Combination

For long-lasting performance, always evaluate both ratings together.

Rayborn’s IP66 + IK10-rated LED lights strike the perfect balance—built to resist both weather and impact, they’re ideal for industrial zones, transport hubs, and exposed public spaces where safety and reliability matter.

How to Choose the Right IK Rating

Use case determines the appropriate IK level:

• IK06–IK07
  Office interiors, indoor retail, low-traffic residential use
• IK08 (Most Versatile)
  Factories, warehouses, public garages, commercial buildings
• IK09–IK10
  Mines, ports, construction zones, public infrastructure, train stations

Rayborn Lighting: Built for Demanding Conditions

With over 14 years of LED lighting innovation, Rayborn Lighting specializes in high-durability, high-performance solutions. All products are rigorously tested to meet IK08–IK10 standards and are paired with IP66 or higher protection, delivering:

• Long-term reliability
• Reduced maintenance
• Certified safety under stress

Product lineup: Flood lights, high bays, solar lights, street lights, and more—engineered for industries that demand more.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore IK Rating

While brightness and energy efficiency often take center stage, impact protection is just as vital—especially in demanding environments where lighting fixtures are exposed to physical risks. The IK rating serves as a key indicator of a product’s ability to withstand mechanical shock, making it essential for safe, reliable, and long-lasting performance.

By selecting lighting with appropriate IK ratings—and pairing them with the right IP ratings—you gain total protection, reduce downtime, and maximize your investment in lighting systems built for resilience.