Samsung is making its first foray into the rugged mobile phone market with the Samsung Solid.

The dual-band handset is encased in a rubber body and has a military grade rating of IP54, making it dust and shock resistant and capable of surviving a splashing.

"Encased in a thick rubber body this phone lives up to its name to withstand tough treatment, making it ideal for any tradesman, extreme sports enthusiasts or those who simply need a durable phone," said the company.

The phone also has an SOS function allowing the user to nominate an emergency number. If the volume button is clicked three times the phone calls the number and automatically answers the incoming call.

The Samsung Solid features an FM radio and Bluetooth as standard, and is available from O2.