Ingress Protection Rating (IP Rating) Guide

Luminaires chosen for use in bathrooms are subject to certain wiring regulations (BS7671: Section 601) and must be selected and erected, so as to be suitable for the external influences likely to occur at the particular point of installation. Such influences are likely to include steam (leading to condensation), falling drops of water and sprays and/or jets from shower heads.

All luminaires can be assigned an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. This relates to the protection afforded by the light fitting against penetration by solid particles or moisture.

The IP rating consists of two numbers.

The first number relates to the degree of protection against solid particles, the second to the degree of protection against moisture.

For bathroom use, the second number is the most significant.

For example, normal household luminaires have a minimum IP rating of 20 (i.e. no protection against moisture).

The required IP rating for light fittings in bathrooms depends on their actual location in the bathroom. The regulations divide the bathroom into zones (see illustrations) which determine the IP rating.
We recommend that all luminaires used in a damp environment are protected with an R.C.D.

Zone 0

Interior of bathtub or shower tray -IPX7 and low voltage supply (max 12v)

Zone 1

Perimeter of bathtub or shower tray up to a height of 2.25m above the floor - IPX4. Use IPX5 where water jets are used for cleaning purposes.

Zone 2

Perimeter 0.6m wide around Zone 1 and 0.75m above Zone 1 - IPX4 Use IPX5 where water jets are used for cleaning purposes.

Zone 3

Perimeter 2.4m wide around Zone 2 and 0.75m above Zone 2 - Use IPX5 where water jets are used for cleaning purposes. Otherwise no specified IP rating required, although lights should be suitable for their location and provide adequate protection against electric shock.

Outside of Zones

There are no stated requirements for IP. Luminaires should be suitable for their location and provide adequate protection against electric shock.
The IEE Regulations do not make specific reference to wash basins, but in the opinion of the Lighting Association they should be treated as Zone 2 (ie IPX4).
 

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