Bathroom Mirror with Lights Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[jhassall@dornbracht.co.uk]

I have purchased a german bathroom cabinet with lights. The lights are operated by a switch. My electrician says he cannot fit this cabinet in my bathroom unless it has a pull cord. Is this true? and where can i get the regualtions to state this.

[kbrownie]

BS7671:2008 has a chapter on special locations, this will tell you of the electrical requirements of bathrooms.
Switchs are generally a no no in bathrooms and lights should be operate either from outside the bathroom or using a pull cord. The book cost about £65-70.
Some electrical accessories are allowed within permitted areas known as zones and will need to be rated to the correct IP (ingress protection) to prevent water hazards. Your electrician is talking sense and safety.
KB

[SparkyPaul]

It can be installed outside the zones in a bathroom as long as it is suitable for the environment
See section 701 of the IEE regs
Needs to be notified to your local building control for part p if you live in england or wales too but your electrician should look after that