Why is the bathroom light switch outside the bathroom?

So, why all the fuss about switches and sockets in bathrooms? It's simple: water increases the risk of electric shock. That's why you'll rarely see a traditional light switch inside a bathroom – just pull cords - and why switches outside the door are the norm.

Always get a qualified electrician to do any work - but if you're wondering why your electrician keeps talking about “zones,” here's the lowdown.

In the UK, bathroom electrics are governed by regulations from the IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology) and British Standards (BS 7671 if you fancy some bedtime reading). These rules outline three bathroom zones to help you understand what can safely go where.

• Zone 0 in the bathroom refers to the interior of the bath or shower where only low-voltage electrical devices specifically designed for wet conditions are permitted
• Zone 1 encompasses the area directly above Zone 0, extending up to 2.25 metres above the water source, where only IPX4-rated electrical devices, such as splash-proof lighting fixtures, are allowed
• Zone 2 extends horizontally from the edge of Zone 1 to a distance of 0.6 metres beyond it, also requiring IPX4-rated electrical equipment to protect against those splashes

You also have to ensure all electrical items are designed for use where they are being installed.

So If you have a big bathroom that extends beyond zones 0, 1, and 2, you still need to install anything electrical with moisture/water protection - because it's a bathroom. So there you are, this is why we have light switches outside of the bathroom, and not inside, and why you'll only really see pull cords inside.

Frustrated by friends and family / children switching off the light while you are in there? Get a mirror with lights built in, or even a motion sensor!