What are Bathroom Electrical Zones? Everything You Need to Know

It’s exciting to renovate your bathroom. Choosing the best LED mirror, selecting streamlined wall lighting or adding a heated towel rail, everything is crucially selected to keep the space warm and cozy. However, bathrooms also pose special safety concerns, as water and electricity don’t play well together. That’s why you need to understand the bathroom electrical zones. These zones determine where electrical appliances can be safely installed and reduce risks of electric shock. They are controlled areas, which means when installing appliances such as lighting, extractor fans or heated towel rails, you are guaranteed that your safety is considered. 

In this guide, we will discuss different bathroom electrical zones, explain what they are and why they are important, and discuss how bathroom electrical zones keep your bathroom functional and safe. Let' s get started. 

What are Bathroom Electrical Zones?

Bathroom electrical zones are defined areas in a bathroom, which determine where electrical equipment can be safely placed. These areas are critical as bathrooms are known as a “special location” under British Standard (BS) 7671 regulations because there is an increased risk of electric shock in wet locations.

Electrical zones in bathrooms are intended to reduce the dangers of having both water and electricity which are in closed proximity. The rules outline where you can install appliances, such as lighting, Led mirrors, radiators and outlets. Each zone has its own exposure to water, which is taken into consideration by electrical products to be installed in that area.

Every electrical installation in a bathroom is rated for Ingress Protection (IP) rating for solid particles and water to guarantee safety. By aligning electrical equipment that matches the criteria demanded by its zone, it can effectively keep a bathroom safe, and hazard-free environment. 

IP Rating: Understanding the Standard of Protection

Electrical equipment in the bathroom must have satisfactory Ingress Protection. Ingress Protection (IP) Rating is an internationally accepted classification system, used by product manufacturers to show how well a product is protected against things like water and dust. 

There should be sufficient protection of electrical devices from moisture, steam, condensation, water drops, or shower sprays. In the bathroom, any product which uses electricity, such as lighting or extractor fans, requires an IP rating. You must know the lowest rating of the area where you’re fixing the product, to ensure that it is safe and legal. Anything with no IP rating cannot be used in wet or damp areas such as Zones 0, 1 or 2 bathrooms. 

IP rating consists of two digits XY.

a) First digit (X): Protection against solid objects.

b) Second digit (Y): Protection against liquids.


IPXY

X = Level of Solid Protection

Y = Level of Liquid Protection

 

c) IP Ratings for Solids: This ranges from (0 to 6) and indicates how well the enclosure is protected against solid objects (like dust).

d) IP Ratings for Liquids: This ranges from (0 to 8) and reflects the protection against liquid in your bathroom

The larger the number of XY, the greater the protection is. At the IP68 level, products can withstand water for longer periods of time. On the other hand, an IP67 light fixture is dust tight and handles temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes). 

 

Breaking Down the Code:

Protection Against Solids:

Level

Protection Against Solids

Description

0

No protection

No defense against any solid objects.

1

Objects larger than 50mm

Protects against large surfaces like hands.

2

Objects larger than 12.5mm

Protects against fingers or similar sized items.

3

Objects larger than 2.5mm

Protect against tools and thick wires.

4

Objects larger than 1mm

Protects against most wires, screws, etc.

5

Limited dust ingress

Dust may enter but won’t interfere with function.

6

Complete dust-tight protection

Fully sealed against dust ingress.

 

Protection Against Liquids:

Level

Protection Against Liquids

Description

0

No protection

No protection against water.

1

Dripping water

Vertical drips have no harmful effect.

2

Dripping water at an angle (up to 15°)

Protection against angled drips.

3

Spraying water

Water spray up to 60° from vertical is safe.

4

Splashing water

Water splashed from any direction won't harm.

5

Water jets (low pressure)

Protection from low-pressure water jets.

6

Powerful water jets

Protection from high-pressure water jets.

7

Immersion (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)

Withstands temporary submersion.

8

Immersion beyond 1 meter

Designed for continuous immersion in water.

 

Understanding the Zonal System for Bathrooms: 

Zonal system in bathroom design is important, as safety should always come first when setting up electrical equipment near water sources. This section divides the bathroom into different sections based on how likely water might touch. There are different regulations regarding the electrical installations in different zones to ensure protection from electrical hazards. There are three major zones in the bathroom:

Zone 0:

Zone 0 is the area which is within the bath or shower tray (base). This zone carries the highest risk as it is in constant contact with water. All Electrical equipment within this zone must comply with the following:

  1. Voltage: Low current, maximum 12V AC (SELV - Safety Extra Low Voltage)

  2. Ingress Protection (IP): Minimum rating of IP67 which is total immersion proof.

  3. Suitable Devices: Waterproof lighting (IP67-rated), submersible speakers designed for bathtubs or hot tubs.

Zone 1:

Zone 1 is above zone 0 and covers the region from 0 to 225cm from the floor. This is the splash zone, where equipment is likely to touch water but not underwater. To ensure safety: 

  1. Voltage: All electrical devices must work up to 12V.

  2. Ingress Protection (IP): A minimum of IP65 is recommended as this resists the splash and water. 240V fittings must have a 30mA RCD (residual current device) to protect the circuit. 

  3. Suitable Devices: Electric showers or splash-proof fans.

Zone 2:

Zone 2 consists of 60 cm of width from zone 1 and is also 225 cm in length from the floor. Though more protected than zones 0 and 1, occasional splashes can occur. The electrical equipment of zone 2 must comply with these standards: 

  1. Voltage: Maximum 12V.

  2. Ingress Protection (IP): IP44 at a minimum (protected from splashes of water from any direction).

  3. Suitable Devices: LED mirrors or shaving sockets.

Zone 3 (Outside the Zones):

Zone 3 is any region outside of Zones 0, 1, and 2, where there is limited water exposure. There is no need for IP rating for electrical equipment installed in this area, although it is better to use equipment rated at least IP44 to avoid humidity and steam. 

Summary of Bathroom Zones:

Zone

Area

IP Rating

Voltage

Special Notes

Zone 0

Inside bath or shower tray

IP67

Max. 12V SELV

Fixed, permanently connected, immersion proof

Zone 1

Above bath/shower to 225 cm from the floor

IP65

Max. 12V

Splash-proof, RCD for 240V fittings

Zone 2

60 cm around Zone 1 up to 225 cm

IP44

Max. 12V

Suitable for occasional splashes

Zone 3

Outside Zones 0, 1, and 2

IP44

No requirement

Moisture protection encouraged

 

Important Terms to Be Familiar with:

  1. IP Ratings: IP (Ingress Protection) is a term used to describe the protection level from water and solid. The higher the number, the more resistant the devices are to water immersion or splashes.
  2. SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage): All electrical installations in bathrooms must use low-voltage systems to reduce the potential risk of electrical shock. Familiarity with these zones will ensure that your electrical fittings are installed safely in your bathroom, avoiding accidents and extending the life of your equipment. Continue to follow the appropriate safety standards for every zone to ensure your bathrooms remain safe.

The Do's & Don’ts of Wiring Safety Guidelines:

Having safe and compliant electrical installation in your bathroom is not an option, but a must. If you fail to follow these measures, it can lead to hazardous situations, which can threaten the purpose of your space and your safety.

The Do’s of Bathroom Electrical Work:

  • Always engage a registered electrician. Use NICEIC registered contractors, or the equivalent in your area, to ensure the work is done properly and lives up to the code.

  • Make sure that all your electrical products are compliant with the requirements of the bathroom zones. 

  • Buy electrical appliances and fixtures from reputable and reliable retailers preferably bathroom specialists, where you can guarantee quality and safety.

  • Arrange for regular inspections with a licensed electrician who can assess the safety and effectiveness of your electrical systems over a span of time.

  • Choose bathroom related products. All items, lighting, gadgets, appliances and cables—must be specifically for bathroom use.

The Don’ts of Bathroom Electrical Work:

  • Don’t try to do electrical work (yourself). The combination of water and electricity in such areas makes bathrooms high-risk parts of the house that require professional work.

  • Good ventilation is vital to avoid the gradual accumulation of moisture over time, which could lead to electrical faults. 

  • Do not hire unprofessional contractors. Work must be performed only by registered and experienced electricians to ensure the right standards of safety and compliance are followed.

Why Do We Need Bathroom Electrical Zones?

Water and electricity present a dangerous combination in bathrooms, hence why they are seen as high-risk areas for electrical hazards. These zones are essential to provide safety, avoid accidents, and the adherence to safety regulations. Here’s why you need bathroom electrical zones:

  1. Safety and Security in High-Risk Zones:

Bathrooms also carry a high risk because of the water available, which makes electric shocks and accidents more likely. Installation and insulation of electrical systems in such areas is imperative to keep risks at minimal point and keep all safe as well.

  1. Legal Compliance:

In the UK, the likes of BS 7671 is a mandatory code of practice. Read on to learn how electrical code can help ensure safe installations and avoid accidents and legal issues. Failure to comply can lead to penalties or denied insurance claims.

  1. Moisture Defense from Electrical Hazards:

The likelihood of risks, including electric shocks and fires, is minimized through carefully designed electrical installations in bathrooms. Using devices with appropriate IP ratings is a safe way to keep equipment functioning for longer and reduce threats from water and dust.

  1. Peace of Mind for Homeowners:

When adhering to safety standards and installing high-quality electrical systems, homeowners can rest assured that their bathroom will be a safe environment. Quality installations enhance safety and durability, giving you peace of mind.

How to Safely and Effectively Place Royal Bathrooms Electrical Items

Basic bathroom electrical layout and planning will help ensure safety and functionality. Royal Bathrooms has a variety of products like LED mirrors, shower mixer kits, and radiators customized to international safety standards to give your space the perfect vibe it deserves.

LED Mirrors:

LED mirrors are a versatile choice for any bathroom, as they are usually installed in the outside zones, where installation is easy. But UK bathrooms are often compact, so planning the space is essential. To maintain safety within the confines of Zone 2, these items should be placed at least 600mm from water sources like taps. IP44-rated, Royal Bathrooms’ mirrors can be fitted safely in Zone 1, Zone 2 or the outside zones which leaves flexibility for you to create your perfect bathroom aesthetic with peace of mind.

Shower Mixer Kits:

Products installed directly near water sources must meet the need for a specific IP rating and zone compliance. Because they are usually placed within splash zones, exposed and concealed shower mixer kits must still comply with Zone 1 installations as well. Providing advice about these products concerning electrical safety is an important aspect of the customer’s decision-making process.

Radiators & Towel Rails:

Being electric, radiators and towel rails also make other popular options for a warm and cozy bathroom. Their placement is critical to safety and effectiveness. Use heating elements in outside zones or Zone 2 at minimum 60 cm away from water sources like sinks, showers and bathtubs. Small bathrooms will limit the location of radiators in Zone 1, but if they are properly IP rated against direct water exposure, they can be included. Whether you are in the security or industrial sector, or looking for IP rated electric radiators and towel rails for your home, Royal Bathrooms’ products are built to a high standard and offer reliability and a stunning style to suit your bathroom decor

Residual Current Device (RCD) for Electrical Protection:

The bathroom is an area where electrical protection is a must. Residual Current Device (RCD) protection should be there for the safety of all electrical circuits in the bathroom. It is designed to prevent electric shocks by instantly turning off the power when you come into contact with a live component. Furthermore, RCD protects against electrical fires, making it a necessary safety feature.

Final Thoughts:

As one of the highest risk areas in your home, understanding bathroom electrical zones is essential for both safety and compliance. These areas, designated in relation to the distance to water, create specific rules for the safe positioning of electrical devices and equipment. In short, by taking account of IP ratings, adhering to wiring regulation requirements and calling on qualified tradespeople for electrical work, your dream bathroom can be glamorous, practical and safe. Safety today, peace tomorrow, and durability for years to come.

FAQs:

What are the electrical requirements for a bathroom?

All electrical work that you do in a bathroom must align with UK regulations including zoning, an IP rating and protective devices like an RCD.

Can you have electric outlets or electric shaver sockets in the bathroom?

There are electric connections in the bathroom. But these need to be at least three meters away from the bath or shower or in Zone 2 and with an 77IP44 rating or above, as with shaver sockets.

What are the zone bathroom lights?

Depending on how close they are to water sources, bathroom lights are divided into 3 categories: Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2, and the different zones require the fixtures to have IP ratings appropriate for each area. 

How to get your bathroom checked for electrical safety?

Then get a qualified electrician to check your bathroom wiring meets regulations, the installations are done correctly and that any safety devices (like Residual Current Devices — RCDs) work.

Is IP44 or IP65 better for bathrooms?

IP65 is more suited to a zone directly exposed to water, such as inside a shower, while IP44 is appropriate for the less-wet areas, such as Zone 2.

How far is zone 2 from zone 1 in a bathroom?

Zone 2 reaches 0.6m (60cm) horizontally outside of Zone 1 and up to 2.25m vertically from the floor.