Lighting and electrics · Bathroom zones and IP ratingsBathroom zones and IP ratings
Bathroom zones and IP ratings
Electrics and water, safely.
The area around a bath or shower is divided into zones. Each zone sets which electrical fittings are allowed and how well protected against water they must be.
- Zone 0
- Inside the bath or shower
- Zone 1
- Directly above it
- Zone 2
- The area just around it
- Ratings
- IP codes
What it is
Zones are defined by the wiring regulations. An IP rating shows how well a fitting is protected against dust and water; the closer to the water, the higher the rating needed.
Good for
Safety
Keeps electricity and water apart.
Clarity
Tells you which lights and fittings can go where.
What to weigh up
Placement
Switches, sockets and some fittings can't go in certain zones.
Qualified work
Bathroom electrics must meet Part P and be done by a qualified electrician.
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