Bathroom Lighting Zones & Regulations Guide

When it comes to choosing lights for your bathroom, there are strict regulations in place regarding the type of lights you can use. Do not worry, as this guide will help you select the correct fittings for your bathroom.

A bathroom is split into three zones: 0, 1 and 2. This can be seen in the diagram below

Zone 0

This zone covers inside the bath or the shower. Light fittings used in this zone must be low voltage and be rated at least IP67 which is immersion proof. Here are a few examples of the IP67 fittings we sell.

For more IP67 lights click here.

Zone 1

The area above the bath or shower to a height of 2.25 from the floor. Light fittings in this zone must have a minimum rating of IP45 but it is generally accepted that IP65 is to be used. See recommended lights below.

For more IP65 lights click here.

Zone 2

The 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. See recommended lights below

For more IP44 lights click here.

Outside of Zones

There are no special IP requirements in this zone. Except that all mains voltage fittings used in a bathroom must be connected to a circuit protected by 30m A Residual current device (RCD).

IP Ratings

IP ratings stand for “Ingress Protection” and followed by two characters. The numbers refer to the level of protection, and it is very important that you choose fittings with the correct rating according to the zone that the fittings will be installed within the bathroom.

The first digit tells you the level of protection against access to hazardous parts and the ingress of foreign objects, such as dust. The second digit tells you the protection against moisture i.e. water.

First Digit (Ingress of Solid Objects)

• 0 – No Protection
• 1 – Protected against penetration by solid objects 50mm+
• 2 – Protected against penetration by solid objects 12mm+
• 3 – Protected against penetration by solid objects 2.5mm+
• 4 – Protected against penetration by solid objects 1mm+
• 5 – Dust Protected
• 6 – Dust Tight

Second Digit (Ingress of Water)

• 0 – No Protection
• 1 – Protected from vertically falling drops
• 2 – Protected from water drops falling at a max angle of 15°
• 3 – Protected from water as in the rain at a max angle of 60°
• 4 – Protected from splashing or projection
• 5 – Protected from low pressure jets
• 6 – Protected from high pressure jets
• 7 – Protected from temporary immersion
• 8 – Protected against long periods of immersion

Please note this information is not an installation guide. Reference should be made to the IEE Wiring Regulations – 17th Edition and you should always seek advice from a qualified electrician before you install lighting within your bathroom. If you require an electrician why not use our Electrical company Central Electrical Contracts Ltd by calling them on 01902 74410

In Summary

We hope this guide has helped you understand what light fittings are suitable for your bathroom. Why not leave a comment telling us which light fitting you have chosen?