EN 62262:2002

Overview

EN 62262:2002 (equivalent to IEC 62262:2002) defines the degrees of protection provided by enclosures for electrical equipment against external mechanical impacts (IK code). The standard classifies enclosure robustness against impacts for equipment with a rated voltage not greater than 72.5 kV. EN 62262 is used where a product-specific standard requires an IK rating for mechanical impact resistance. Note: EN 62262 replaces/re‑numbers earlier EN 50102 editions.

Key topics and requirements

• IK classification system: Numeric IK codes correspond to standardized laboratory impact severity levels that indicate the degree of protection an enclosure provides against external mechanical impacts.
• Scope limits: Applicable to electrical equipment enclosures for systems with rated voltage ≤ 72.5 kV and only when the specific product standard calls for an impact protection classification.
• Test principles: The standard establishes repeatable impact tests and criteria for assigning IK ratings (test methods, sample preparation and acceptance criteria are defined in the standard text).
• Marking and documentation: Enclosures rated under EN 62262 should carry IK identification and be documented in technical files and product specifications.
• Conformity: Manufacturers and test laboratories use EN 62262 to verify and declare the IK rating as part of product compliance.

Applications and who uses it

EN 62262 is used across design, manufacturing, testing and procurement for electrical enclosures where mechanical impact resistance matters:

• Enclosure and electrical equipment manufacturers - to design and certify mechanical robustness (IK ratings) for products such as switchgear, control panels, lighting fixtures and outdoor cabinets.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies - to perform standardized impact tests and issue IK ratings.
• Specifiers, OEMs and utilities - to select equipment suitable for harsh environments or public installations (vandalism-prone areas, industrial sites).
• Procurement and compliance teams - to include IK requirements in tenders and ensure products meet specified degrees of mechanical protection.

Related standards

• IEC 62262 / EN 62262 (same document series)
• Product-specific standards that reference IK requirements (e.g., switchgear, luminaires)
• Standards addressing ingress protection (e.g., IP ratings / EN 60529) - often used together with IK ratings to specify overall enclosure protection.

EN 62262 is essential when specifying or verifying mechanical impact resistance of electrical enclosures. Using the IK code helps ensure consistent, testable protection levels for equipment deployed in demanding environments.