Many slips and falls happen in bathrooms and areas where there is water or a slippery surface. Water and electricity are also a dangerous combination. This page provides some tips about keeping safe in wet areas.
Electrical appliances and switches
Water conducts electricity. To avoid an electric shock, keep electrical cords and appliances dry and away from water or damp areas.
You should never touch electrical switches or wires when you are wet. Keep a small towel handy to dry your hands before touching electrical switches. Make sure that these are switched off if not in use.
In bathrooms, use an alternative appliance, such as a battery-operated razor, instead of an electric one.
Install a wall-mounted bathroom heater and have it hardwired into your wall by a registered electrician.
Residual current devices
Residual current devices (RCDs) should be installed in damp or wet areas of your home where there are electrical fittings, such as bathrooms, laundries, kitchens, garages and pools. An RCD is an electrical safety device that provides protection by rapidly disconnecting the electricity supply in situations in which you could otherwise receive a fatal electric shock.
For more information, see the following documents published by the Energy Safety Service:
- Residual current devices – switching on to safety (PDF 507K)
- A guide to living safely with electricity (PDF 532K)
Non-slip mats
Use non-slip mats in the bathroom: a bathmat on the floor, and a rubber mat in the bath or shower. Mop up any excess water you see.
A non-slip bath mat is textured to help prevent slips. It should stick securely to the bath, shower or floor. You can buy these from your local hardware or home store.
Rails
To prevent falls, fit a safety handrail next to the toilet, in the shower box, or over the bath.
Rails help people to:
- steady themselves
- support themselves when transferring from one position to another
- balance when standing, stepping or dressing.
Rails need to:
- be within easy reach
- be fixed firmly to the wall and take the full weight of the person
- provide a secure grip
- be durable and free from corrosion
- have a non-slip grip if used in wet areas
- be visible against their background.
Always install handrails with a clear space of 50mm between the rail and the wall.
The position of the rail will depend on what type of handrail you are installing and where you are installing it.
Soap dishes
Use a soap dish to keep soap and other items off the bath or shower floor.
Install a shower caddy (hanging or suction pad) in your bath or shower. These are available from home stores or hardware stores.
Last updated: 20 April 2009