Water and electricity do not mix, so UK wiring regulations divide a bathroom into zones based on how close each spot is to water. The zone tells you how well protected a light needs to be, and that protection is shown by its IP rating.
What the IP Rating Means
An IP rating has two numbers. The first is protection against solid objects such as dust and fingers; the second is protection against water. In a bathroom it is the second number that matters most.
- IP20 - no water protection. Dry rooms only.
- IP44 - protected against splashing water from any direction. The usual choice for bathrooms.
- IP65 - protected against jets of water.
- IP67 - protected against temporary immersion.
An "X" in place of the first number, as in IPX4, simply means that number was not tested.
The Zones
- Zone 0
- Zone 1
- Zone 2
- Outside the zones
- 2.25m from the floor
- 60cm
Zone 0 - inside the bath or shower tray.
The space that can hold water. A light here must be at least IPX7 and run on extra-low voltage (12V at most), with the transformer placed outside the zones.
Zone 1 - directly above the bath or shower tray.
From the top of the bath or tray up to 2.25m above the floor. A light here needs at least IPX4, or IPX5 if the area could be cleaned with water jets. Many people choose IP65 here for peace of mind.
Zone 2 - next to the bath or shower.
A band stretching 60cm out from the edge of zone 1, up to 2.25m above the floor. A light here needs at least IPX4.
- Zones 0 and 1
- Zone 2
- 60cm
- Outside the zones
Outside the zones.
Beyond zone 2, the regulations do not set a minimum IP rating. Steam still travels, though, so we recommend IP44 for any light in a bathroom, including those well away from the bath or near the basin.
Choosing a Bathroom Light
- Ceiling lights over the bath or shower are usually in zone 1, so look for IP44 or IP65.
- Wall lights beside a mirror are often in zone 2 or outside the zones. IP44 covers both.
- Pendants and chandeliers are rarely rated for zones 1 or 2. Only fit one well outside the zones, and only if your electrician confirms it is suitable.
- Every light on our site lists its IP rating, and bathroom-rated lights carry it in the product name and specification.
Safety First
Bathroom lighting should always be fitted by a qualified electrician, who will also check that the circuit is protected by an RCD. Measure the zones in your own bathroom with them before you buy, because the layout of every room is different.
Need a Hand?
Call our lighting team on 0113 2818 343. Tell us where the light will go, and we will point you to lights with the right rating.
