Light switch proximity to bath tub - InspectionNews

JD Johnson · #1 (**permalink**) 03-30-2008, 07:25 PM

Hello - can some one give a quick (and accurate) refresher on the allowable proximity of light switches to bath tubs? If I recall correctly, spas and hot tubs have to be 5 feet beyond any light switches, but what about regular bath tubs? I inspected a house this weekend, with switches at both ends...of course the old rule of thumb, that is it doesn't look right, it probably isn't kicked in - but I could not find anything concrete in my NEC 2005 edition.

THanks much in advance. Be safe out there -

Best regards - jdj

Victor DaGraca · #2 (**permalink**) 03-30-2008, 07:41 PM

Hope this helps...
2006 IRC

E3901.7Wet locations.

Aswitch or circuit breaker located in a

wet location or outside of a building shall be enclosed in a
weatherproof enclosure or cabinet. Switches shall not be
installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless

installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly.

Those switches certainly appear to be within the tub/shower space.

Rick Hurst · #3 (**permalink**) 03-30-2008, 08:27 PM

Whether there is a code or not, sometimes you have to call out ignorance that can lead to death.

JD Johnson · #4 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 06:34 AM

Thanks for the help. Yes, I know you know can call stuff out because it is a poor application - but then you get in contest with the Builder, and the Buyer gets stuck in the middle. HOWEVER, by referencing "code" it encourages the Builder to correct the application without too much flack.

Andy Cox · #5 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 07:09 AM

I almost never cite code, but explain the hazard to the client. I've never failed to get them to see the problem. Then they can hound the GC or a home seller to get it fixed. Or if it never gets fixed, at least the new owner is aware of the problem.
I've gotten a couple of calls from an electrician and a plumber about these kinds of issues, but I still refrain from code citations, and just appeal to them, "Does this really look right?" And they usually back down. It helps that these are not the original contractor who actually installed the plug in the shower or whatever...

Michael Koser · #6 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 07:38 AM

Hey JD,

I have a similar situation in my own 45-year-old house. I have a light switch and a bathroom vent fan switch right next to a shower. Builders do stupid things sometimes. I simply placed the bathroom circuit including the switches on a breaker GFCI. I know its not the best solution but it’s a lot easier than moving an electrical switch. I have found this situation several times before on inspections and I do suggest a electrical contractor to install a GFCI to offer additional protection. I don’t know about your real estate laws but a homeowner in NC is not required to upgrade a house from original building code. So a GFCI is a simple solution and generally less expensive solution.

MDK

Jerry McCarthy · #7 (**permalink**) 03-31-2008, 09:28 AM

Dumb location, yes. Code violation, no.

John Steinke · #8 (**permalink**) 04-04-2008, 07:40 PM

Switches are not allowed 'withing the enclosure' ... something generally defined from the waterline, straight up, to eight feet, IIRC. So, right next to the tub is one thing; over it (as shown) is a violation.

Jerry McCarthy · #9 (**permalink**) 04-05-2008, 09:50 AM

Hi John
Code section # please? All I know of in the 2006 IRC regarding your post is section E3901.8, which doesn't match your statement. Please enlighten me, thanks.

Joe Klampfer · #10 (**permalink**) 04-05-2008, 03:40 PM

haha.... something to do if you get bored while soaking in the tub.... left foot on switch A - right hand on switch B - keep flipping to ensure 3-way switches operating correctly.

Victor DaGraca · #11 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 06:32 AM

Jerry M.

What about E3901.7Wet locations.

"Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly."

Ken Amelin · #12 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 07:43 AM

Those switches don't appear to be "WITHIN" the wet location. they appear to me to be "NEXT TO".

Just my opinion, unless NEC has defined the word "WITHIN" otherwise.

Jerry McCarthy · #13 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 12:19 PM

Thanks Victor, my mistake as I meant E3901.7.

Aaron Miller · #14 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Dumb location, yes. Code violation, no.

I disagree. Code violation, definitely. Dumb location, without any doubt.

Quote:

Those switches don't appear to be "WITHIN" the wet location. they appear to me to be "NEXT TO".

Corrective lenses might help. These are absolutely within the wet location and must be moved.

E3901.7 Wet locations.
A switch or circuit breaker located in a wet location or outside of a building shall be enclosed in a weatherproof enclosure or cabinet. Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly.

Aaron

Michael Larson · #15 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 01:11 PM

Anyone notice the spray head?

Aaron Miller · #16 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael Larson

Anyone notice the spray head?

Yes, and depending upon the length of the hose on that wand, the wet area could be even further extended . . .

Aaron

John Arnold · #17 (**permalink**) 04-06-2008, 04:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aaron Miller

Yes, and depending upon the length of the hose on that wand, the wet area could be even further extended . . .

Aaron

Or, depending on the water pressure!

John Steinke · #18 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 07:34 AM

Sorry for mussing things up with "net speak"

By "IIRC," I meant 'if I recall correctly.' Oops.

Nonetheless, it appears the IRC has language identical to that of NEC 404.4 in this regard.

Richard Franklin · #19 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 08:00 AM

Attached is a drawing from Code Buddy. What is forgotten is the tub zone. The location of the switch or outlet within the tub zone has been an issue for many years. Mike Holt should be leading the charge to the NEC to change this situation. GFCI's fail. People build up a false feeling of security. If a switch or outlet is not allowed within five feet of a pool or spa, how is it that it is allowed around a tub? Are you not just as dead?

If someone is not siting code issues, isn't this a cop out? It's time that all HI's studied the code and became experts. If you are not siting the code just what are you doing? Reporting the chipped paint? Broken window?

This is an issue that should be clearly addressed by the NEC. HI's should be leading the charge. What we continue to have is a work force that is trained in a 3rd world country making life and death decisions. In the cases of new construction it would just as easy to move the outlets or switches.

Michael Thomas · #20 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 08:03 AM

Richard,

I don't see the drawing.