A guide to bathroom lighting

In the UK, there are strict regulations concerning the type of lighting you can use in bathrooms. Bathroom lights are given an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. You must choose fittings which have IP ratings equal to or higher than the minimum required for their position in the bathroom.

Zone 0 is inside the bath or the shower tray itself. Any fitting used in this zone must be low voltage (max 12V) and be rated at least IP67, which is totally immersion-proof.

Zone 1 is the area above the bath or shower tray to a height of 2.25m from the floor. In this zone a minimum rating of IPx4 is required. If the fitting is 240V, a 30mA residual current device (RCD) must also be used to protect the circuit.

Zone 2 is an area stretching 0.6m outside the perimeter of the bath and to a height of 2.25m from the floor. In this zone an IP rating of at least IP44 is required.

Zone 3 is anywhere outside zones 0, 1 and 2 (subject to specific limits) and where no water jet is likely to be used. No IP rating is required.

In addition to the above, if there is a likelihood of water jets being used for cleaning purposes in zones 1, 2 and 3 a fitting rated at a minimum of IP65 must be used.

PLEASE NOTE: this guide is intended to explain in general terms the regulations relating to bathroom lighting. Although we've made every effort to ensure its accuracy, we make no guarantees. We strongly suggest you ask a qualified electrician to install your lights.

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