What This Requirement Covers
Bathrooms and shower rooms are classified as special locations under BS 7671 due to the increased risk of electric shock in wet conditions. Approved Document P requires that all electrical work in bathrooms (including replacing accessories) complies with BS 7671.
Key Requirements
Zone System
BS 7671 divides bathrooms into zones based on proximity to water
- Zone 0: Inside the bath tub or shower basin. Only SELV (Separated Extra-Low Voltage, maximum 12V) equipment permitted.
- Zone 1: Above the bath/shower to a height of 2.25 metres. Only fixed equipment rated IPX4 (splash-proof) or higher. Electric showers, instantaneous water heaters, and SELV lights are permitted.
- Zone 2: Extends 0.6 metres horizontally from Zone 1 (and the area above Zone 1 to 3 metres height). Equipment must be rated IPX4 minimum. Shaver sockets to BS EN 61558-2-5 are permitted.
- Outside zones: Normal installation rules apply, but all circuits in the bathroom must be RCD protected (30 mA).
Specific Requirements
- No socket outlets in Zones 0, 1, or 2 (except shaver sockets in Zone 2)
- All circuits serving the bathroom must be protected by a 30 mA RCD
- Supplementary equipotential bonding may be required, connecting exposed metalwork (pipes, radiators, baths) to the earth
- Light switches inside the bathroom must be pull-cord type or SELV; plate switches at normal height are not permitted within the bathroom
- Electric underfloor heating in bathrooms must be installed with appropriate IP rating and RCD protection
Practical Compliance Tips
- All bathroom electrical work is notifiable under Part P; use a registered electrician
- Specify IP-rated luminaires appropriate for their zone (IPX4 minimum in Zones 1 and 2)
- Pull-cord switches are the simplest compliant option for bathroom lighting
- Shaver sockets must comply with BS EN 61558-2-5; do not install standard 13A sockets in bathrooms
- Electric showers must be on a dedicated circuit with appropriate MCB/RCBO protection
- Supplementary bonding may not be required if all circuits are RCD protected and the installation meets BS 7671 requirements; your electrician will assess this
- Extractor fans in bathrooms should be rated to the appropriate IP standard for their zone