NEMA Definitions

NEMA is an acronym for National Electrical Manufacturers Association. It Provides a Forum for the standardization of electrical equipment.

NEMA1 Indoor use; provides a degree of protection for falling dirt
NEMA 2 Indoor use; provides a degree of protection from falling dirt; dripping and light splashing liquids
NEMA 3 Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection from falling dirt, rain, sleet, and snow; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure
NEMA 3R Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection from falling dirt, rain, sleet, and snow; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure
NEMA 3S Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection from falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow and windblown dust; external mechanisms remain operable when ice laden
NEMA 4 indoor or outdoor use;  provides a degree of protection from falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing water, and corrosion; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure
NEMA 4X Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection from falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing water, hose directed water, and corrosion; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure
NEMA 5 Indoor use; provides a degree of protection against falling dirt, settling airborne dust, lint, and fibers; provides a degree of protection against dripping and light splashing liquids
NEMA 6 Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection against falling dirt; hose directed water and the entry of water during occasional, temporary submersions at a limited depth; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure
NEMA 6P Indoor or outdoor use; provides a degree of protection against falling dirt; hose directed water and the entry of water during prolonged submersion at a limited depth; will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure