Q & A of the Day - If we have a shower on a hose, what regulation applies?

Published: 21 January 2011 Category: Q&A

Our Voltimum Experts answer your questions on a daily basis in our Technical Expertise area. This Question of the Day, concerning a non-fixed shower arrangement and zoning, is answered by the NICEIC:

Q & A of the Day - If we have a shower on a hose, what regulation applies?

Question: In BS7671:2008, Clause 701 on the zoning above showers and baths only applies to fixed outlets. If we have a shower on a hose, what regulation applies? My view is that Regulation 701.512.2 should apply. However, this only states that the equipment subject to water jets should be IPX5. We should surely be able to use SELV equipment instead.

My problem is with a fan locater over the shower, but above 2.25m height of Zone 1, it only becomes a problem because the shower head is not fixed.

Answer: You are correct in saying that any equipment installed in a shower area must be suitable for the zone it is installed in. Your fan is above Zone 1, but where water jets are likely [as when the shower head is not fixed], the equipment must have an IP rating of at least IPX5 (Regulation 701.512.2 refers).

It would also be prudent to use an SELV fan to further minimise any risk.

To see many more Q & A in Voltimum UK's Experts Area, please click on the link:

www.voltimum.co.uk/consult.php?universe=consult.index.questions