Bathroom
Great care needs to be taken when choosing bathroom lighting as the regulations are strict concerning the type of light you can use.
The bathroom mirror deserves some special attention and a diffused glass light either side will give a good general illumination where it is needed. The alternative is a halogen down-light from the ceiling or fluorescent strip light over the mirror. The latest generation of mirrors incorporate lights into the mirrors themselves, with sections of the reflective surface removed and lights fitted behind them. This is a very effective way of generating an even light and improving safety.
For general illumination in the rest of the bathroom either use down-lights for their refreshing halogen colour or a high-output flush ceiling fitting to suit the décor.
Portable lights are not permitted in a bathroom, so for mood lighting use ceiling mounted directional spotlights aimed away from the bath and at interesting features.
Lights designed specifically for showers are available and must be carefully fitted according to the instructions. The following information is a guide to help you understand what fittings can be placed where.
This is not an installation guide and reference should be made to the IEE Wirings Regulations (16th Edition) or a qualified electrician. Firstly it is important to understand the rating by which bathroom and some outdoor lights are classified. IP rating stands for ‘Ingress Protection’ and is always followed by two characters. These two numbers refer to level of protection and it is important that you choose fittings with the correct rating according to where they are to be sited within the bathroom.
Full details can be found in the latest copy of the IEE wiring regulations.
Explanation of IP Ratings for Protection
| 1st No. | Description | 2st No. | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Not Protected | 0 | Not Protected |
| 1 | Protected against Solid Objects greater than 50mm | 1 | Protected against Dripping Water |
| 2 | Protected against Solid Objects greater than 12mm | 2 | Protected against Dripping Water when tilted to 15° |
| 3 | Protected against Solid Objects greater than 2.5mm | 3 | Protected against Spraying Water |
| 4 | Protected against Solid Objects greater than 1mm | 4 | Protected against Splashing Water |
| 5 | Dust Protected | 5 | Protected against Water Jets |
| 6 | Dust Tight | 6 | Protected against Heavy Seas |
| 7 | Protected against the effects of Immersion | 8 | Protected against Submersion |
Specification of Bathroom Fittings
| ZONE | LOCATION (see below) | RESTRICTIONS (see above) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | The interior of the bath tub or shower basin. | Only SELV not exceeding 12v AC nominal voltage. Transformers must be sited outside Zones 0,1,2. IP rating must be at IPx7. |
| 1 | Area immediately above bath or shower tray. | IP rating of at least IPx4. Where water jets are likely to be used for cleaning purposes in communal baths and showers at least IPx5 is required. |
| 2 | Within 0.6m of the outside edge of the bath or shower. | IP rating of at least IPx4. Where water jets are likely to be used for cleaning purposes in communal baths and showers at least IPx5 is required. |
| 3 | Anywhere outside Zones 0,1 and 2. | No specific IP rating unless where water jets are likely to be used for cleaning purposes in communal baths and showers at least IPx5 is required. |
Download our bathroom lighting regulations guide.
© Pagazzi 2007