When browsing lighting, you’ll often see a fitting described as Class I, Class II, or Class III. But what does that mean — and why should it matter to you?

These classifications are all about electrical safety. They tell you how the fitting is designed to protect you in case of a fault, and what kind of wiring or installation is required.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

Class I Lighting

Class I fittings rely on basic insulation and require a connection to earth (ground) for safety. If a fault occurs, the earth connection safely carries away the fault current to prevent electric shock.

Key points:

• Requires an earth wire
• Needs to be connected to an earthed circuit
• Typical in metal-bodied fittings

Where it’s used:

• Metal pendants
• Exterior lights with conductive housings
• Areas where full earthing is in place

You’ll often see a Class I fitting marked with a standard earth symbol (⏚).

Class II Lighting (Double Insulated)

Class II fittings have double insulation or reinforced insulation, so they don’t require an earth wire. This means they’re safe even without a ground connection.

Key points:

• Does not require an earth wire
• Ideal for plastic-bodied fittings or designs with internal insulation
• Can be safely installed on a two-wire system

Where it’s used:

• Homes without earth at ceiling rose
• Renovation projects where adding earth is difficult
• Decorative lights made from non-conductive materials

You’ll see a square within a square symbol on the fitting or packaging.

At Leora Lighting, many of our indoor fittings are Class II — perfect for homes where earthing may be unavailable or inconvenient.

Class III Lighting (Low Voltage / SELV)

Class III fittings are designed to operate on extra-low voltage, supplied by a SELV (Separated Extra Low Voltage) transformer. The key safety feature is that the voltage is so low, it doesn’t pose a shock risk under normal conditions.

Key points:

• Powered by a low-voltage driver or transformer
• Typically runs at 12V or 24V
• Common in outdoor and bathroom lighting where extra safety is needed

Where it’s used:

• Garden lighting
• Bathroom mirror lights
• Specialist fittings in wet zones

These fittings must always be installed with the correct SELV driver and wiring system.

How to Know Which Class You Need

It depends on your installation:

• If you have an earth connection, you can use Class I or II.
• If there’s no earth, choose Class II.
• If you’re working in wet or outdoor areas, Class III may be required.

Always consult an electrician if you’re unsure, and check the symbols or markings on the product.

At Leora Lighting, we clearly state the class of every fitting and are happy to advise if you're not sure what's right for your project.

Final Thoughts

Lighting classes are about keeping you safe — not complicating your choices. Knowing whether a fitting needs earthing, double insulation, or a low-voltage transformer helps ensure your installation is both compliant and reliable.

Explore our Class I, II and III lighting ranges or contact our team for help choosing the right fitting for your space.