IP55 – high protection in demanding environments

The requirements to be met by connectors and sockets for domestic and similar purposes are defined by the Swiss standard SN 441011. This also includes requirements for multiple and intermediate adapters, travel and fixed adapters, power strips and extension cables. For the first time, the Swiss system has been extended in the new standard with IP55 sockets and connectors.

The IP55 protection rating includes both full dust and contact protection (IP5X) and protection against water jets (IPX5). For sockets this safety is guaranteed both when the IP55 connector is inserted and when the hinged lid is closed.

Products that are primarily used where IP protection higher than IP20 is required must have IP55 connectors. This applied in particular to equipment used in agricultural and horticultural operations, on construction sites and in outdoor areas. Even for permanently mounted sockets on unprotected exterior walls or in wetrooms, only tested IP55 products may be used. The same applies to power supplies for robotic mowers, construction power distributors, pond pumps etc., where IP55 protection must also be complied with.

If a degree of protection higher than IP21 is required at the installation site, a conventional NAP or NUP socket may be used until the end of the transition period on December 31, 2024. From the cut-off date on 1 January 2025, NIN 2025 stipulates that an IP55 socket is mandatory if the installation situation requires a protection rating higher than IP21 (environment > AD2) and if the affected socket must be disconnected from the connections.

It is permitted to replace the lid of a hinged lid socket for repair purposes. However, a suitable original part must be used. After repair work is completed, the original IP protection rating must also be restored.

Yes, this is permitted. Recessed sockets of cable reels and construction power distributors that are in use may be brought up to IP55 standard by replacing the old IP44 socket with a new IP55 recessed socket.

Exceptions apply to devices that are only used temporarily outdoors. Such devices do not need to be converted. This category of equipment includes garden cable reels, connecting cables of lawn mowers, and other (mostly hand-held) garden tools that are in use outdoors for a short period of time. Good to know: Even an extension cable which is occasionally needed for an electric barbecue does not have to have an IP55 protection rating.

Yes, most common IP20 connectors are compatible and can be inserted into the new IP55 sockets. Backward compatibility is also ensured, IP55 connectors can also be plugged into IP20/21 sockets indoors.

No, most "rubber plugs" that have been suitable for outdoor use up to now do not fit into the new IP55 sockets at all, or only to a limited extent. Never use force to establish such a connection in this combination!

MAX HAURI AG supplies a wide product portfolio that complies with the SN 441011 standard with the IP55 protection rating. All these products are excellently suited for outdoor use, on construction sites, in wetrooms, for agricultural and horticultural operations, event and industrial environments.

Products that have a higher degree of protection than IP21, e.g. pond pumps, pressure cleaners, products on construction sites such as concrete mixers, compressors. Our IP55 extension cables and power strips are ideally suited for supplying power.

The ergonomic and easy-grip design guarantees simple insertion and removal. The cable sheath of the extensions, made of neoprene rubber, is also oil-resistant and very robust. Furthermore the IP55 connectors and mobile sockets are guaranteed to be dustproof and jet waterproof even when plugged in. They can, however, be easily inserted and removed.

No, this is not permitted. The foreign connector must be cut off and replaced with an appropriate IP55 connector.

First digit	Protection against the penetration of foreign bodies	Second digit	Protection against water
0	No protection	0	No protection
1	Protection against ingress of solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 50 mm or more	1	Protection against vertically falling water drops
2	Protection against solid foreign objects with a diameter of 12.5 mm or more	2	Protection against diagonally falling water drops with an inclination of up to 15 degrees
3	Protection against solid foreign objects with a diameter of 2.5 mm or more	3	Protection against diagonally sprayed water up to 60 degrees
4	Protection against ingress of solid foreign bodies with a diameter of 1 mm or more	4	Protection against splash water from all sides
5	Protected against dust	5	Protection against water jets
6	Dustproof	6	Protection against powerful water jets
		7	Protection against temporary immersion in water
		8	Protection against continuous immersion in water

Dust & water jet protection IP55

What does IP55 stand for?

Validity of the SN 441011 standard

IP55 products in use

In the field

In the industry

On buildings

Questions and answers concerning the SN 441011 standard

This is what the SN 441011 standard contains

Which protection is provided by IP55?

Which applications require a mandatory IP55 connector?

What must be observed when repairing or replacing a permanently installed socket?

What applies to if a hinged lid is replaced for repair purposes?

Is it permitted to convert existing devices and connectors to IP55 protection?

What are the exceptions for outdoor applications?

Will a standard IP20 connector fit into an IP55 socket?

Can an IP44 connector be inserted into an IP55 socket?

Which IP55 products does MAX HAURI AG supply?

Which devices should be operated with IP55 products?

What are the other advantages of MAX HAURI AG products?

Can a fixed adapter be connected to a foreign IP44 connector?

Overview of the IP protection classes