Bathroom lighting has to tick two boxes — it needs to look beautiful and be safe. That’s where bathroom zones come in.

The UK Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018 + A2:2022) define specific zones around baths and showers, each with its own safety requirements — including which IP rating your light fitting needs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through Zones 0, 1 and 2 (yes, Zone 2 still exists!), what each one means, and how to pick fittings that comply with regs without compromising on design.

What Are Bathroom Zones?

Bathrooms are considered special locations under the IET Wiring Regulations. Because water and electricity don’t mix well, zones are used to indicate how likely an area is to get wet — and what level of protection is required.

These zones also help you choose the right IP-rated light fitting — to prevent water ingress and ensure long-lasting, safe performance.

Zone Breakdown (Based on On-Site Guide, 2022 Edition)

Zone 0

Where: Inside the bath or shower tray (including recessed floor areas).
Requirement:

• IPX7 minimum (protected against immersion)
• Only 12V AC or 30V ripple-free DC SELV circuits allowed
• The SELV power source must be installed outside the zones
• No switches or accessories allowed

Zone 1

Where: Above the bath or shower up to 2.25m from the floor, and inside vertical boundaries of the bath/shower.
Requirement:

• IPX4 minimum (splashproof)
• If likely to be cleaned with water jets, IPX5
• SELV circuits allowed (max 25V AC or 60V DC)
• Switches must be outside zones — or SELV only with power source outside zone

Zone 2

Where: The 0.6m area beyond Zone 1, horizontally from the edge of the bath or shower, up to 2.25m high.
Requirement:

• IPX4 minimum
• SELV circuits permitted if the source is outside the zone
• Shaver sockets (BS EN 61558-2-5) allowed only if fixed where direct spray is unlikely

💡 This zone often covers wall lights or mirrors near basins or baths. Many people overlook it — but it’s still part of the regs.

Outside Zones

Where: Anywhere beyond Zones 0, 1, and 2.
Requirement:

• No specific IP rating required — but IPX4/IPX5 is still recommended for damp-prone areas
• Standard accessories, SELV sockets, and even socket outlets are allowed — if 2.5m horizontally from Zone 1

Summary Table (Based on Table 8.1, On-Site Guide)

Did You Know?

💡 You can put a light switch in a bathroom.
No, really.

As long as it’s either:

• SELV, with the transformer located outside the zones, or
• Installed fully outside Zone 2, at least 2.5 metres horizontally from the edge of Zone 1 — you’re good to go.

Wall switches aren’t banned — they just have to be placed sensibly. That said, pull cords and motion sensors are often more practical (and less fiddly with wet hands).

What IP Rating Should You Choose?

At Leora Lighting, we recommend:

• IPX4 minimum for Zones 1 and 2
• IPX5+ for high-pressure cleaning or wetrooms
• IPX7 (or IP68) for recessed floor lights, walk-in showers, or bath surrounds
• IP44+ even in outside zones, to protect against long-term humidity and condensation

We clearly label the IP rating and zone suitability on every bathroom-safe fitting.

Safe Doesn’t Mean Boring

We stock a wide range of bathroom fittings that tick all the safety boxes — and still look great.

• Wall lights for mirror symmetry and soft face lighting
• Ceiling spots for task lighting
• Low-glare ambient fittings to create a relaxing spa-like feel
• Even IP-rated pendants for statement looks above freestanding baths (just check height and clearance from zones)

Final Thoughts

Zones 0, 1 and 2 might sound technical, but they’re just about making sure your bathroom lighting lasts and stays safe.

Stick to the guidance, match your IP ratings to the zone, and don’t forget — you can still be creative.

Still not sure what’s suitable? Just ask us. We’re happy to recommend beautiful, IP-rated fittings that make your bathroom shine.