Electrical Safety Advice for Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting usage and safety

Electrical lighting in the garden, porch, or other outdoor space is common nowadays but can create a safety risk if not properly installed and maintained.

Modern outdoor lighting comes in a wide variety, with many types designed for a specific purpose. The most popular are probably wall lights for pathways, seating areas, or patios, and floodlights for large outdoor spaces, often used for security and illuminating entrances, driveways, or walkways.

Lighting can be either mains-powered or battery-powered. Solar-powered lights use photovoltaic (PV) cells to absorb sunlight into a battery for powering the lights at night, often seen as a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Passive infrared (PIR) sensors and motion sensors are also popular choices for security lights activation on dark paths or entrances.

Key points

All lamps must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug and fuse.

Whichever type you choose, buy from a reputable retailer.

Be careful where you place a lamp to avoid creating a trip hazard.

Use the correct light bulb for the lamp.

Buying and installing outdoor lighting

When choosing outdoor lighting, consider the area to be illuminated, the power source, and the IP rating to ensure the lights are suitable for your environment.
For mains-supplied lighting in the garden, always buy good quality electrical outdoor lighting equipment from a reputable stockist or electrical wholesaler.
Make sure the outdoor lights are weatherproof, and that light fittings used in water features are waterproof and suitable for submersion.
Always have it installed by a registered electrician in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and BS 7671 – Requirements for Electrical Installations (IET Wiring Regulations).

Maintaining outdoor lighting safely

Check regularly for damaged lighting fittings, cables and connections.
Keep it clean and free from leaves and dirt.
Before changing any lamps, switch off the power supply.
If any faults are found, switch off the electrical supply immediately, and have them repaired by a registered electrician.

ALWAYS

Use only suitable weatherproof lighting outdoors.
Use a registered electrician to install outdoor lighting.
Switch off the power supply before cleaning, adjusting, or checking outdoor lighting.

AVOID

Using outdoor lighting if any faults are found.
Using light fittings in water features unless they are waterproof and suitable for submersion.
Digging in the garden close to electric cables, gas pipes, or water services.

Has your electrical product been recalled?

Electrical products are recalled more regularly than you might think, but the response rate to a recall is often worryingly low. This means there are potentially millions of recalled electrical items still in UK homes.

Check your appliances

Outdoor lighting