A guide to IP classification for the bathroom

When choosing lighting for your bathroom, it is important to consider the IP or Ingress Protection rating your light sources as certain areas of the bathroom require different IP classifications. The IP classification indicates how well a device is protected against water and dust.

Monday, May 6, 2024

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What is an IP classification?

The IP rating consists of two numbers, e.g. IP44. The first number describes how resistant your light is to dust and touch, while the second number indicates how well it can withstand the ingress of water and vapour. ‘0’ is the lowest value.

A bathroom can be divided into different IP zones, these zones tell us which is the lowest IP class allowed in each zone.

IP zone 0
This zone consists of the inside of a bath and the floor area of a shower and in the case of a shower, the zone includes the floor surface (or the shower tray) and 10cm up the wall.

IP zone 1
Zone ‘1’ starts directly outside zone ‘0’ and extends 225cm up the wall (from the floor). The floor area of the zone is limited to the size of the bath/shower tray. If the shower has no shower tray, a distance of 120cm from the shower head is used as the boundary.

IP zone 2
Remaining (water-free) parts of the room.

Always consult an electrician when considering installing lighting in your home.