Electrical Safety in Wet Environments: Regulations and Recommended Products

Electricity and moisture can be a dangerous combination. Therefore, any electrical installation located in areas with water, vapor, or condensation must follow specific protection measures. This article explores what defines a wet environment, which regulations govern electrical installations in these settings, and what products and practices are recommended to ensure maximum safety.

What is considered a wet environment?

A wet environment is any space where there is a risk of contact between electrical installations and water or high humidity levels. This includes not only areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, or laundries, but also industrial settings, outdoor spaces, parking garages, processing plants, tunnels, or coastal zones.

According to the UNE-HD 60364 standard, these spaces require special measures for installation and use of components with appropriate protection levels. Additionally, in indoor humid areas like bathrooms and locker rooms, risk zones (0, 1, 2) are defined that determine what type of electrical equipment can be installed.

Applicable regulations for electrical installations in wet environments

European and national technical regulations specify requirements to ensure safety in these conditions:

• UNE-HD 60364-7-701: Installations in bathrooms. Defines zones 0, 1, and 2, with restrictions based on exposure level.
• UNE-HD 60364-7-702: Installations in outdoor areas such as gardens, pools, or fountains.
• IEC 60529: Classification of IP protection levels.
• UNE-HD 60364-5-51: General requirements for selection of materials and protection systems.

In Spain, the Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation (REBT) also includes additional requirements for wet environments under ITC-BT-25 and ITC-BT-30.

What IP protection level is suitable for wet areas?

The IP protection rating determines how resistant a device is to ingress of solid and liquid elements. It is composed of two digits:

• First digit: Protection against solids (dust, tools, fingers).
• Second digit: Protection against liquids (dripping, splashing, jets, immersion).

In wet environments, devices with a minimum of IP44 are recommended. For outdoor areas or locations with frequent water contact, higher levels such as IP55, IP65, or IP66 are advised.

Besides water protection, in certain environments it’s also crucial to ensure resistance to mechanical impacts. 

Recommended products for electrical installations in wet environments

Using the right components is essential to reduce risk. Key elements include:

• Sealed enclosures: Junction and distribution boxes with IP65 or IP66 protection, made of materials resistant to humidity and corrosion.
• Protected switches and sockets: With weatherproof covers or special seals to block water ingress.
• Residual current protection: Type A or F residual current devices (RCDs) to detect leaks, even in presence of DC components or harmonics.
• Surge protection: Use of surge protective devices in areas prone to storms or outdoor installations.
• Sealed lighting: IP-rated LED luminaires suitable for exteriors, basements, or industrial humid environments.
• Halogen-free cables: Especially advisable for enclosed humid spaces with fire risk.
• Prewired distribution panels: Factory-assembled units designed for humid conditions, including integrated protections.

Best practices for design and installation

• Proper placement: Avoid positioning electrical points near water sources.
• Sealed conduits: Use conduits and fittings with adequate moisture protection.
• Gland sealing: Critical for cable entry points in enclosures and panels.
• Corrosion-resistant materials: Use stainless steel screws, UV-resistant plastic, or treated finishes.
• Differential protection: Type A or F with 30 mA sensitivity is mandatory in general wet-use areas.
• Avoid common errors: Open boxes, unsealed entries, improperly insulated connections, or lack of labeling.
• Routine inspections: Especially important in industrial settings or where pressure washing or constant humidity exists.

Conclusion

Electrical safety in humid environments is a critical element of any professional installation. It’s not just about meeting standards, but about protecting people, equipment, and infrastructures against real risks.

At Solera, we develop solutions specifically designed for demanding environments, including enclosures, differential devices, surge protectors, and accessories with the appropriate protection ratings. To simplify the selection and configuration process, we offer professional tools like our photovoltaic panel configurator, adaptable to the technical needs of every project.

Prevention starts with choosing the right components. And safety begins with technical knowledge and commitment.