Height of light switch

[DanBrown]

Hi Guys,

Just a quick question regarding the height of a normal light switch. What is the regulation regarding the min and max height of the switch. I have noticed in new build's they seem to be quite low. Is this for disabled people?,
What is the min and max height
Thanks in advance

 

[DadofTwo]

Hi Dan,

Building regs state no more than 1.2m off ground. For sockets, no less than 450mm off ground.

It is indeed for people with limited mobility. However, unless the house is specifically designed for a person with limited mobility then the above doesn't apply to the kitchen and garage.

For re-wires the height regs don't apply but for a complete refurb of a property the regs are apparently supposed to apply.

 

[Cirrus]

Yup, exactly as DadofTwo said with max of 1200mm being to top of switch too

 

[Richard]

Does this apply in private housing aswell. For example, for a friend?

Cheers

 

[wayne]

the osg gives recommended heights .if you want your installation to pass then its better to stick to those heights

 

[Cirrus]

Yup - most certainly domestic dwellings

 

[jack1307]

The 450 min height does that apply to all new builds (commercial and domestic).

 

[Cirrus]

As far as I know, yes to comply with disabled needs

 

[LukeScotty]

height regulations, only apply to new builds. If your wiring up an old/exsisting building or rewiring, you don't have to take these height regs into account, only if its a new building. I do think the building inspector would recommend you working to the 1200mm n 45mm heights. It'll certainly give you and the building inspector a better relationship, showing you do look at the building regs

 

[Skotz]

Things have changed a lot since i was working on building sites in the late 70's. Then you measured the center mark of your switch with a broken off piece of plaster board and the height was just below your shoulder at the top of your bicep.

Really going to have to get my thinking cap on for my 2381 exam.