Bathroom Lighting
LIGHTING FOR TRADITIONAL BATHROOMS
We tend to think of bathrooms today as being a modern invention and in many ways they are. Bathing during Roman times was a communal affair but during the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries the use of public baths began to decline and private spaces were preferred which paved the way for the modern bathrooms we are familiar with today. Wealthy households in Victorian and Edwardian Britain had splendid bathrooms but the vast majority of the people did not have that luxury, and the ‘old tin bath’ in front of the fire was the order of the day (but not necessarily every day!).
BATHROOM LIGHTING REGULATIONS EXPLAINED
One of our most frequently asked questions is ‘Can I use this light in my bathroom?’ Bathrooms are by definition ‘wet rooms’ and we all know that water and electricity don’t mix, so to ensure our safety there are specific rules and regulations that apply to bathroom lighting. They are applicable not only in commercial situations but also in our own bathrooms at home too. These regulations are rightly rigorous, stating that bathroom light fittings must be completely encased to avoid shorting and electric shock. For your own protection please don’t be tempted to use a conventional light fitting that is not specifically designed for bathroom use.