Create well-lit and hazard-free bathrooms
Bathroom Zones
The process of lighting bathrooms has various aspects to consider. This is so that the environment is not only well lit, but also a safe place for users. A vital aspect that shouldn’t be avoided is the different Zones within a bathroom. These Zones have been created to simplify the installation process, and to ensure that the various areas have been complemented with fixtures that are protected against various substances.
The central point of bathroom Zones is the IP (Ingress Protection). This refers to the level of protection offered by an electrical enclosures against the entrance of water, dust, and other particles that can be found in bathrooms. This is significant because if not considered, there is a higher possibility of there being damage on the electronic components.
Zone 0
Zone 0 is where you would typically find the highest IP rating. This is based on water features being the most prominent in this Zone. As the result of this, the installer would need to consider an IP67 rated fitting as this will protect against any water coming from baths or showers. This will also enforces greater safety measures amongst the electrical part of the product.
Zone 1
Zone 1 is similar to Zone 0, the difference is that the area extends to 2.25m above the finished floor level. Any fitting used in this Zone must therefore be protected against water spray which can come from any directions. This Zone will therefore need IP65 rated fittings. Though it is a little lower, it is effective for protecting against dust ingress and lower water pressures.
Zone 2 is an area that covers 0.6m outside the perimeter of the bath. This space is also to a height of 2.25m from the floor. In this Zone again an IP rating of at least IP44 would be ideal. This will protect the fittings against the ingress of insects, dust and splashing water. Though it is very much possible to use higher IP rated fittings within this area, it is important to consider that this Zone is less likely to be immersed in large volumes of liquids.
In conclusion, it is fundamental to understand these zonal areas as it ensures that the correct fittings are being used. It is also important to note that out of the groups’ mentions, Zone 2 is flexible in that all the mentioned IP ratings can be used here. Whilst for Zone 0 and zone 1, the perfect solution can only be one with a high IP rating. So while knowing the impression you want create in bathrooms is very important, the proper foundation relies upon having well protected lighting fixtures for all the Zones.
