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<div class="container"><header>
<p class="lead">IP (Ingress Protection) ratings tell you how well electrical equipment is protected from solids (dust, fingers, tools) and liquids (water, sprays, immersion). This quick guide explains the format, meaning of each digit and the UK-specific minimums for different locations.</p>
</header><main class="card">
<section>
<h2>What does an IP rating mean?</h2>
<p><strong>IP</strong> stands for <em>Ingress Protection</em>. The format is <code>IP</code> followed by two digits — for example, <code>IP65</code>. The <strong>first digit</strong> (0–6) indicates protection against solids and dust. The <strong>second digit</strong> (0–8) indicates protection against water.</p>
<h2>What if a digit is shown as “X”?</h2>
<p>Sometimes you will see ratings such as <code>IPX4</code> or <code>IPX1</code>. The <strong>“X”</strong> means that the product has not been tested for that part of the rating. For example:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>IPX4</strong> — Not tested for solid ingress, but splash‑proof from all directions.</li>
<li><strong>IP2X</strong> — Finger protection tested, but no water‑ingress test performed.</li>
</ul>
<p>This is common for devices like <strong>hand dryers</strong>, where water exposure is the primary concern, so manufacturers test only the liquid‑protection digit.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</section>
<section style="margin-top: 18px;">
<h2>IP rating chart</h2>
<div class="grid">
<div>
<h3>First digit — Solids (0–6)</h3>
<table aria-label="IP first digit solids table">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Digit</th>
<th>Protection level</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td>No protection</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Objects &gt; 50 mm (hands)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Objects &gt; 12 mm (fingers)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Objects &gt; 2.5 mm (tools)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Objects &gt; 1 mm (wires)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Dust protected</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Dust tight</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div>
<h3>Second digit — Liquids (0–8)</h3>
<table aria-label="IP second digit liquids table">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Digit</th>
<th>Protection level</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td>No protection</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Dripping water (vertical)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Dripping water (tilted 15°)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Spraying water (up to 60°)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Splashing water (all directions)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Water jets (low pressure)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Powerful water jets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Immersion up to 1 m</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Continuous immersion</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</section>
<section style="margin-top: 18px;">
<h2>Quick reference — common ratings</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>IP20</strong> — Common for indoor appliances where finger protection is needed but water exposure is unlikely.</li>
<li><strong>IP44</strong> — Typical minimum for bathrooms and covered outdoor spaces (splash protection from all directions).</li>
<li><strong>IP65</strong> — Frequently used outdoors for protection against dust and water jets.</li>
<li><strong>IP67 / IP68</strong> — For temporary or continuous immersion (submersible devices / underground equipment).</li>
</ul>
</section>
<section style="margin-top: 18px;">
<h2>UK-specific requirements</h2>
<p>The UK follows the international standard IEC 60529 / BS EN 60529, and certain minimum IP levels are commonly applied depending on location and installation. Below are practical minimums used in UK installations (also referenced within wiring regulations such as BS 7671):</p>
<h3>General installations</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Horizontal surfaces:</strong> Minimum <code>IP4X</code> (dust protection).</li>
<li><strong>Vertical surfaces:</strong> Minimum <code>IP2X</code> (finger protection).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Bathrooms (BS 7671 zones)</h3>
<p>Bathrooms are split into zones — the closer to the bath or shower, the higher the required protection:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Zone 0</strong> (inside bath/shower): <code>IP67</code> (immersion rated).</li>
<li><strong>Zone 1</strong> (above bath/shower up to 2.25 m): <code>IP65</code> (water jets).</li>
<li><strong>Zone 2</strong> (within 0.6 m of bath/shower): <code>IP44</code> (splashing water).</li>
<li><strong>Outside zones</strong>: Minimum <code>IP20</code>, <em>but</em> <code>IP44</code> is often recommended where there is any risk of splashing.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Outdoor equipment</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Covered areas (porches, eaves):</strong> <code>IP44</code>.</li>
<li><strong>Exposed areas (gardens, driveways):</strong> <code>IP65</code>.</li>
<li><strong>Underground / submersible:</strong> <code>IP68</code>.</li>
</ul>
<p class="note">Note: IP ratings are one part of safe electrical selection — consider mechanical strength, impact resistance (IK rating), mounting location, and compliance with current UK wiring regulations when specifying products.</p>
</section>
<section style="margin-top: 18px;"></section>
<section style="margin-top: 18px;"></section>
<footer>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</footer>
<section>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</section>
</main></div>

IP Ratings Explained

<p>If you are looking to install school hand dryers we have some tips to help you establish which models and styles are best for your institution. When it comes to choosing hand dryers for schools, there are lots of variables that can influence which hand dryer you select. Washroom Hub has worked to find the best hand dryers for schools and each unique washroom environment.<br><br>To help you decide which hand dryer is best suited to the school environment you are working with, we have come up with suggestions to help you select the best hand dryers for schools. These recommendations are based on where the hand dryer will be located, the age of the students using the hand dryers and the improvement of hygiene.<br><br></p>
<h2>Where in the school will the hand dryer be used?</h2>
<p>Many school washroom environments are evolving, with a move towards unisex toilets and communal hand washing areas. With such a shift, this has resulted in higher traffic washroom environments which are often in more public spaces. To accommodate for this change, the type of hand dryer required may be different than in confined, private traditional washrooms. A greater volume of smaller hand dryers may be required so there is a sufficient amount for the elevated footfall. We recommend opting for a style such as the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/blue-dry-jet-hand-dryer-500-1350-watts-compact-high-speed">BlueDry Mini Jet</a> which is compact and fast, drying hands in under 10 seconds. Alternatively if there is heavy traffic through this area then a “hands-in” style hand dryer could be a better option for ensuring pools of water don’t form on the floor. For this type of environment the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-executive-blade-hand-dryer-0-7-1-0kw">Biodrier Executive Blade</a> or the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-business-2">Biodrier Business 2</a> hand dryer are ideal options for ensuring excess water is captured and disposed of. The Executive hand dryer is the more hygienic choice of the two, with a HEPA filter incorporated into the design to remove harmful airborne particles. Depending on the layout of toilet blocks and washrooms, the type of children’s hand dryers chosen may need to change with the evolving designs of school buildings. Another element to bear in mind when it comes to placement of hand dryers is the noise they generate. You may wish to choose quieter hand dryers if they are located in spaces such as libraries to minimize disruption. Quiet hand dryers for schools include styles such as the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-junior-hand-dryer-2000-watts-ultra-quiet">BlueDry Junior</a> hand dryer, which emits just 60dB of sound. However the payoff for this unobtrusive hand dryer is it’s slower drying time and higher energy consumption. Alternatively, if you’re looking for efficient hand dryers, Washroom Hub offers electric hand dryers for schools that can have their airspeed altered. These style of hand dryers can be placed in washrooms near areas such as examination halls as they can be set to a quieter mode when exams are on, whilst remaining a highly efficient choice for the remainder of the time. A style such as the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-blade-runner-500-1450-watts-high-speed-energy-efficent">BlueDry Blade Runner</a> Hand Dryer provides the option of reducing airspeed to result in lower noise levels.</p>
<center><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-business-2"><img src="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/6b42a6e94dcdfe205e27516d729fa096/h/d/hd-bb702w-02__52219.jpg" alt="Biodrier Business 2 hand dryer" width="" height="300"></a></center>
<p><br><br></p>
<h2>What is the age of students using the hand dryers?</h2>
<p>Age is an important consideration when it comes to selecting electric hand dryers for schools. Smaller children may not have much previous contact with hand dryers, so a less clinical approach could be taken when choosing hand dryers for these environments to encourage use. For example, models such as the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-biobot-school-hand-dryer-0-65-0-9kw-kids-hand-dryer-double">Biodrier Biobot</a> is a great option, with two stylized back boards available to accommodate for both preschool and early primary school years. The <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-biobot-school-hand-dryer-0-65-0-9kw-kids-hand-dryer-single">first backboard design</a> is created for younger children, and the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-biobot-school-hand-dryer-0-65-0-9kw-kids-hand-dryer-double">second</a> is designed to mount the hand dryer higher up, making it a great option for older children. This style of hand dryer features a fun design, created to make hand dryers more engaging and inviting. However, if you are looking to purchase hand dryers for older students, Washroom Hub recommends robust and reliable hand dryers to discourage vandalism and accidental damage. A great option in this instance is the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/airsenz-commercial-hand-dryer-brushed-550-1800-watts-eco-jet-high-speed">Airsenz i-Force</a> which offers a hard wearing stainless steel finish and a is high speed jet hand dryer.</p>
<center><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-biobot-school-hand-dryer-0-65-0-9kw-kids-hand-dryer-single"><img src="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/6b42a6e94dcdfe205e27516d729fa096/h/d/hd-bb08_1_1.jpg" alt="Biodrier Biobot School hand dryer" width="" height="300"></a></center>
<p><br><br></p>
<h2>Improving hygiene in schools</h2>
<p>Quality hand dryers are great tools in improving hygiene. Fast, efficient hand dryers are more likely to result in completely dry hands as there is a higher chance the user will complete the drying procedure if it lasts ten seconds, rather than an increased period of 30 seconds. Completely dry hands result in less bacteria and means students are less likely to spread viruses. A great electric hand dryer for schools to meet this criteria is the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-biolite">Biodrier Biolite</a> hand dryer, which dries hands in under 10 seconds. Hand dryers that include extra features such as HEPA filters are an even more hygienic option, as these style of hand dryers capture 99.99% of unwanted airborne particles, ensuring harmful bacteria isn’t blown around. A great choice of hand dryer which includes a HEPA filter is the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-3d-smart-dry-0-2-0-8kw-intelligent-hand-dryer-1">Biodrier 3D Smart Dry</a> hand dryer. This is a hands under dryer which is designed to fit within most washroom environments and is an affordable options for schools. Increased hygiene reduces absenteeism, making these some of the best hand dryers for schools.</p>
<center><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/biodrier-3d-smart-dry-0-2-0-8kw-intelligent-hand-dryer-1"><img src="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/6b42a6e94dcdfe205e27516d729fa096/3/d/3d_smart_dry-white-.jpg" alt="Biodrier 3D Smart Dry hand dryer" width="" height="300"></a></center>
<p><br><br>These are all key points to bear in mind when selecting <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/hand-dryers/school-hand-dryers">school hand dryers</a>, however these aren’t the only hand dryers that are suitable to be placed in an educational institution. Washroom Hub has collated an entire category dedicated to school hand dryers to provide you with plenty of choice. Alternatively, visit our&nbsp;for more advice and information. However, if you require more assistance in selecting your hand dryer call on <strong>0800 023 4937</strong> to chat with the Washroom Hub Team.</p>

How to Choose Hand Dryers for Schools

<p>Cheap hand dryers are perfect for smaller washrooms or low key projects. They are perfect alternatives to expensive drying solutions such as paper towels, which require continuous, costly refills and are very time consuming to upkeep. Cheap hand dryers can easily pay for themselves, with their affordable outlay and low monthly running costs, making them the perfect solution for those looking for cheap hand drying methods.<br/><br/> <h2>How much is a hand dryer? </h2> There are too many variables to give a blanket answer, however we can give a guide for what’s considered as a cheap hand dryer. Everyone’s gauge of what’s affordable and what’s expensive is different when it comes to hand dryer price. However, for simplicity, at Washroom Hub we categorise cheap hand dryers as any hand dryer that is available for under £100. The hand dryers within this category tend to be best suited for lower traffic areas such as one or two small washrooms, rather than larger scale projects. However, these are all quality hand drying solutions designed to last, so depending on circumstance and washroom area, these hand dryers may be suitable for larger scale projects.<br/><br/> <h2>Automatic hand dryer prices</h2> The best cheap hand dryers Washroom Hub offers are the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-junior-hand-dryer-2000-watts-ultra-quiet">BlueDry Junior</a> hand dryer and the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/airsenz-commercial-hand-dryer-brushed-550-1800-watts-eco-jet-high-speed">Airsenz i-Force Jet</a> hand dryer. <br/><br/> The <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-junior-hand-dryer-2000-watts-ultra-quiet">BlueDry Junior</a> hand dryer is the cheaper of the two. This automatic hand dryer price is incredibly low, considering hand dryers go from anywhere between £40 and over £1000. The BlueDry Junior hand dryer brings with it a two year guarantee and a low decibel rating of 60dB. However, this hand dryer’s low price is reflected in the longer drying time of 35-40 seconds, higher energy consumption than some of the other modern hand dryers on the market and its brushed motor. Even with this in mind, the BlueDry Junior warm air hand dryer is still more affordable to run than the alternative of continually upkeeping paper towels within bathrooms. <br/><center><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-junior-hand-dryer-2000-watts-ultra-quiet"><img src="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/6b42a6e94dcdfe205e27516d729fa096/h/d/hd-bd1053w-01__01451.jpg" alt="BlueDry Junior Hand Dryer" width="" height="300px"></a></center><br/><br/> The <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/airsenz-commercial-hand-dryer-brushed-550-1800-watts-eco-jet-high-speed">Airsenz i-Force Jet</a> hand dryer is more expensive, however the Washroom Hub Team sees this as the best value hand dryer within the cheap hand dryer price bracket and even is one of the most highly recommended units for medium traffic areas! The Airsenz i-Force has it all, a stainless steel design to deter vandalism, a fast drying time and the option of both cold high speed air and warm air drying settings. The high speed cool air function offers low energy consumption, meaning this is a very cost efficient hand dryer. The fast drying time will ensure improved hygiene as users are more likely to use the hand dryer for the total time required to dry hands, resulting in completely dry hands. The dual setting of hot and cold air also makes for a more comfortable drying experience. In colder environments, the warm air function can be switched on, alternatively if the ambient room temperature is hot, the cool air setting can be used.<br/><center><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/airsenz-commercial-hand-dryer-brushed-550-1800-watts-eco-jet-high-speed"><img src="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/6b42a6e94dcdfe205e27516d729fa096/h/d/hd-as1000_-9.jpg" alt="Airsenz i-Force Jet Hand Dryer" width="" height="300px"></a></center><br/><br/> <h2>Cheap hand dryer verdict</h2> These hand dryers are both great options and are available at incredibly affordable prices. Washroom Hub recommends opting for the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/bluedry-junior-hand-dryer-2000-watts-ultra-quiet">BlueDry Junior</a> hand dryer if you are economizing and are looking for a cheap hand dryer for a small staff bathroom. However, if you are able to spend a little more, the <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/airsenz-commercial-hand-dryer-brushed-550-1800-watts-eco-jet-high-speed">Airsenz i-Force Jet</a> is the perfect option! This budget hand dryer is very cost effective and efficient, making it perfect for a wide range of projects.<br/><br/> However, these aren’t the only cheap hand dryers available. Washroom Hub has an entire section dedicated to <a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/hand-dryers/budget-hand-dryers">cheap hand dryers</a> for you to find a style that fits into your budget and needs.<br/><br/> If you are looking for more tips and guides in choosing hand dryers, visit the <strong><a href="https://www.washroomhub.co.uk/blog">Washroom Hub blog</a></strong> for ideas and help!</p>

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