"When you think about bathroom lighting, your first thought might be about how a fitting looks. A stylish pendant over the bath or recessed spotlights in the ceiling can be a standout feature and make a huge difference to the look and feel of a room. But, looks are only half the story. In a space where water, steam and electricity are in close quarters, safety is critically important."
"That's why bathroom lighting is more heavily regulated than lighting in any other part of the home. Getting it right isn't just about ticking the compliance box - it's about protecting the people who use the space. Misjudging the level of protection a fitting needs, or skipping essential safety devices, can result in an installation that's unsafe, not insurable, and in breach of building regulations."
"Bathroom lighting is governed by Part P of the Building Regulations, which covers electrical safety in dwellings. It requires that any electrical work in a bathroom is carried out by a competent, qualified electrician. Approved document P sets out the general requirements such as IP ratings and zones with specific standards defined by BS EN60529 and the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)."
Bathroom lighting aesthetics matter, but safety is paramount where water, steam and electricity coexist. Regulations under Part P require bathroom electrical work to be carried out by a competent, qualified electrician, with Approved Document P specifying IP ratings and zones and standards under BS EN60529 and the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671). IP (Ingress Protection) ratings indicate protection against solids and water; higher numbers mean greater protection. For example, IP20 offers almost no water protection, while IP67 is dust-tight and can withstand temporary immersion. Incorrect protection levels or omitted safety devices can create unsafe, uninsurable installations that breach building regulations.
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