Bathroom Lighting: Where should you hang your pendant?

Good bathroom lighting is essential for creating a functional and comfortable space. Not only does it make it easier to perform tasks like shaving and applying makeup, but it can also enhance the overall design of your bathroom. However, when it comes to bathroom lighting, there are certain safety regulations that need to be followed in Australia.

The Electrical Safety Standards for Electrical Installations (ESS) outlines the requirements for electrical installations in different areas of a bathroom. This includes the classification of zones, which determines what type of electrical equipment can be installed in each area.

Zone 0: This is the area inside the bath or shower. Only low voltage (12V) lighting with a maximum of 12 watts is permitted in this zone.

Zone 1: This is the area directly above the bath or shower up to a height of 2.25m. If the fitting is less than 2.25m from the floor, it must be IPX7 rated and low voltage (12V) with a maximum of 12 watts.

Zone 2: This is the area extending 0.6m outside the bath or shower and up to a height of 2.25m. If the fitting is less than 0.6m from the edge of the bath or shower, it must be IPX4 rated and low voltage (12V) with a maximum of 12 watts.

Outside Zone: This is any area outside of the above zones and any area that is more than 2.25m from the floor. There are no special requirements for lighting in this area, but it must still comply with general safety standards.

When choosing bathroom lighting, it is important to check the IP rating, which determines the level of protection against water and dust. The higher the IP rating, the more protected the fitting will be. It is recommended to choose fittings with an IP rating of at least IP44 for bathroom use.

In addition to safety regulations, it is also important to consider the overall design of your bathroom when choosing lighting. Consider the size of your bathroom, the color scheme, and the type of mood you want to create. Accent lighting can be used to highlight certain features, while task lighting can be used for practical purposes.

If you still aren’t sure whether your pendant should hang over your bath tub - check with your Electrician. They are a Licensed Professional, can point you in the right direction and their work should adhere to the Australian Standard, AS/NZS 3000:2018. Another trusted source should be your lighting supplier, or have a chat with Tahleah Hoyle Design for further advice.

So there you have it! With a little bit of knowledge about Australian standards for electrical zones requirements, you can create a safe and stylish bathroom that's perfect for you.