Bathroom Lights UL Listing

The non-profit Underwriters Laboratory, or UL, sets the benchmark for the safety of electrical components. This means, when choosing your bathroom fixtures, you'll want to check the UL-listing on your fixtures; this will let you know where each fixture can be safely used in your bathroom. Here, we'll break down the UL listings for bathroom lighting fixtures.

Dry Locations
Dry location fixtures are those designed for use in a space not normally subject to dampness. Some temporary dampness, such as condensation during construction, may occur, so long as the area is ventilated well enough to prevent moisture accumulation.

Damp Locations
Damp location fixtures are those designed for use in a space normally or periodically subject to condensation in, on or adjacent to lighting fixtures. Some may require a protective luminaire to prevent moisture from accumulating in, on or around the fixture.

Wet Locations
Wet location fixtures are those designed for use in a space in which water can drip, splash or flow on or against electrical equipment. Such lighting fixtures should include a luminaire to shade the light source and to prevent the accumulation of water on live parts, conductors and electrical components; luminaires that allow water to pass through them must have an adequate drain hole.

In general, keep in mind that no parts of card-connected fixtures, hanging fixtures, track lighting, pendant fixtures or ceiling fans should be located within a zone three feet horizontally and eight feet vertically from the top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold.