DFC Equipment Program: Children and adults
Bathroom electrical safety document kit
Enclosed:

Principles for Managing Electrical Safety in Bathrooms

Scenarios

Electrical Safety Checklist

DFC Procedure – Bathroom Electrical Safety

AS3000 Section 6 Figures – Zones

AS3000 Table 6.1

Client Information Sheet

Care Worker Information Sheet

Diagram – Plastic Sheet and Tape
1 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Principles for Managing Electrical Safety
in Bathrooms
Use the Zones of AS3000 to define the areas of risk of water spray/splash
within bathrooms. Clinical staff do not need to ensure that bathrooms
comply with AS3000, but should use the dimensions of zones for guiding
clinical reasoning around managing risk.
Many homes were built before the current regulations were in place. The
important principle for managing bathroom electrical risk is to prevent the
entry of water into switches/sockets/devices.
Acknowledgements
The Department for Families and Communities (DFC) is grateful for the information and advice
provided by the Office of the Technical Regulator. Department for Energy, Transport and
Infrastructure (Government of South Australia)
Use shower alcove or bath

Whenever possible, showering should occur inside a shower alcove or over a bath.

This practice makes best use of existing facilities (barriers, waterproofing, drainage) and
minimises electrical risk.
Temporary versus permanent changes to bathrooms

When showering over a floor drain, temporary measures (such as covering with plastic) are
acceptable in managing risk. The unorthodox use of the bathroom will, generally, be limited
to people who have been instructed on how to work safely (client/carer/care attendants). It is
unlikely that a visitor to the home will decide to take a shower in the middle of the floor when
a regular shower is also available.

For permanent changes to bathrooms (e.g. removal of fixed screens), more permanent
measures should be considered to decrease risk (e.g. disconnecting power outlet or
installation of waterproof switch).

When permanent changes are made to the bathroom, there is the possibility that people
unfamiliar with the environment may not take necessary precautions (e.g. a visiting family
member using the shower may not be aware that switches or outlets need to be covered).
Control water spray

Use barriers where available.

Water pressure should be low.

Direct spray away from switches/sockets/devices.

Use alcove or bath wherever possible.

Showering a client outside of a designated shower alcove should be a last resort and
requires a careful analysis of the electrical risks within the bathroom.

Care worker to maintain control of hose when client not able.

“Plug-on” style rubber hoses should be clamped onto tap outlet during use and covered with
a hand towel to control spray in the event of a “blow-off”.
Barriers

Use or install barriers.

Barriers should be closed as far as is practical.

The removal of a barrier will result in changes to the dimensions of electrical zones.

Avoid removing fixed barriers unless absolutely necessary.
Zones

Use the AS3000 zone dimensions to determine the degree of electrical risk in bathrooms.

Areas of concern are Zones 1 and 2.
2 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Principles for Managing Electrical Safety
in Bathrooms

Measurements need to be taken of distances to switches/sockets/devices from location on
showering:
3 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Principles for Managing Electrical Safety
in Bathrooms

 Fixed plumbing outlet (FPO) inside a shower alcove or bath.
 Location of client when showering over floor drain in middle of bathroom.
Physical changes to the bathroom (removing barriers) and the different use of the bathroom
space (showering over a floor drain) may result in changes to the dimensions of the zones.
Switches/sockets/devices

Any switches/sockets/devices located within zones 1 and 2 need to be either protected
against the entry of water or modified by an electrician.

Outlets identified as being “at risk” should have a label fixed adjacent reading “Cover Before
Showering” as a prompt to clients, carers and staff.

Lights such as “batten holders” can be covered with a clip on cover.
Effective seal/barrier

The Office of the Technical Regulator recommends using a waterproof plastic sheet to cover
outlets can be a method of preventing water from entering switches/sockets/devices.

An effective seal is a protective cover that prevents the entry of water:
 Directly through the front of the outlet (or)
 Running down the wall to enter through the back of the outlet
There are no guidelines on what can be used to make a seal, the dimensions or method of
attaching it to a wall. DFC clinical staff have devised a size and method that takes into
account the ease of application to the wall.
 An effective seal can be:
 A sheet of sturdy flexible plastic (approximately 600x600mm)
 Socket located behind the centre of the sheet
 Hung from the wall
 Taped seal along top edge of sheet
 A “seal” does not mean that all sides need to be taped. It is the dimension of the sheet
that prevents the accidental entry of water.
 If a smaller sheet of plastic is used, tape around all of the edges needs to prevent the
entry of water between the wall surface and the plastic sheet. It can be difficult to
maintain an effective seal if taping over grout between tiles.
 Childproof covers, glad wrap or margarine containers are not effective covers.
Condensation

Strategies should be used to prevent excessive steam in bathrooms and build up of
condensation on walls.

Of particular concern are droplets of water running down the wall and behind switches/
sockets/devices.

Use exhaust fans, open windows or doors.
Other appliances

Hairdryers, shavers, etc should be located outside of the room or in a cupboard to prevent
them from being sprayed with water.

Floor heaters can be used to heat a room but must be moved outside the bathroom prior to
showering.
Water Spray over Floor

Is primarily a risk of slips and falls.

Barriers should be installed and used.

Non-slip mats should be used, or non-slip floor treatment.

Care worker to dry floor following shower.
4 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Principles for Managing Electrical Safety
in Bathrooms
Client Information

Clients should be provided with verbal and written information on appropriate use of showerhose and electrical safety.
Documentation
The following areas require risk analysis and statements about how electrical safety risks are to be
managed in bathrooms:
Home modification prescription

Shower-hose and removal of shower screen.
Equipment prescription

Rubber plug-on shower hose.
Client file

Progress notes should contain a record of clinical reasoning in relation to electrical safety
issues for 1) Home modifications or 2) Implementing a personal care service.

Use the “Electrical Safety Checklist” to guide clinical reasoning.
Staff information and Service plans

Care workers should be provided with written information on appropriate use of shower-hose
and electrical safety.

Hazard form (for personal care services) should include a statement such as:
“Bathroom electrical safety issues exist in this house. Refer to service plan for
specific instructions”.

Service plans should give instructions on specific safety measures that are required for
individual clients (only list specific issues that are not included in the information sheet) – e.g.
“Use the plastic sheet provided to cover the power outlet located beside the hand
basin”.
Training

Orientation for new clinical staff should include introduction to the Principles for Managing
Electrical Safety in Bathrooms by an approved prescriber for hand showers and removal of
barriers who has completed the Bathroom Electrical Safety training.

Clinicians are required to complete the item specific approved prescriber process prior to
prescription of these items/modifications.

Staff should complete the Bathroom Electrical Safety training as soon as able.

Staff who have completed training are encouraged to seek clarification from on-site clinical
resource people for more complex issues.
5 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Five scenarios have been developed to assist
occupational therapists with clinical reasoning using
AS3000 Electrical Installations – Domestic Installations
(Amendment 3 Section 7.1 Locations containing baths,
showers or other fixed water containers) as a guide.
The aim of these scenarios is to analyse risk around
common bathroom situations: electrical safety, client
function, prescribing equipment/home modifications
and the provision of in-home assistance.
Acknowledgements
Department for Families and Communities is grateful for the information and advice provided by
the Office of the Technical Regulator. Department for Energy, Transport and Infrastructure
(Government of South Australia).
Scenario 1
Client showering in an enclosed alcove independently with door shut.
Scenario 2
Client showering in an enclosed alcove assisted by carer or care attendant with door
partly open.
Scenario 3
Removal of a glass shower alcove door for
mobile shower chair access. Assisted by carer.
Scenario 4
Showering on a bathboard.
Scenario 5
Showering on mobile shower chair positioned over floor drain.
6 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Scenario 1



Client showering independently
seated on a shower chair in shower
alcove.
Hand-held shower hose is to be
installed.
What issues need to be considered
and what recommendations need to
be made?
Solutions





Note the location and distance to
Power Point, light switch.
Determine the dimensions of the
Zones.
Advise client to keep door closed
during showering.
The light switch and power socket in this example fall in Zone 3.
No changes are required.
Provide client/carer with written and verbal advice on the correct
use of a hand-held shower hose.
7 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Scenario 2




Same bathroom as #2
Client showering seated on a shower
chair in shower alcove assisted by a
care worker.
There is a hand-held shower hose in
the alcove.
What issues need to be considered
and what recommendations need to be
made? In particular, the care attendant
assisting the client through a partly
open door.
Solutions









Note the location and distance to
Power Point, light switch.
Determine the dimensions of the
Zones.
When a care worker is assisting, the door should be kept closed
as far as possible.
Measure zones extending through the “opening”.
The care worker standing in the open shower door will act as a
barrier minimising water splash.
Consider slipping risk from water splash on the floor outside the
shower. Worker/carer will need to check that the floor is dry
before client exits shower.
The bathroom is presented in the diagram below with the sliding door in the open position.
The absence of a barrier (or in this case, not using the barrier) causes Zone 1 to extend the
full 1.2m from the fixed plumbing outlet. Zone 2 extends a further 0.6m
The power socket beside the basin is now in Zone 2.
 The power socket should be
covered with a plastic sheet during
showering.
 Provide client/carer with written and
verbal advice on the correct use of
a hand-held shower hose.
 Document safe procedure in
service plan.
8 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Scenario 3




Client has limited mobility and is showered
seated on a mobile shower chair. The client is
assisted by a care worker.
Glass sliding doors and fixed panels are
removed to improve access to the alcove.
There is a power socket 450mm from the fixed
panel of the sliding door.
Explain what you would do in this situation to
address safety issues.
Near wall
Distant wall
Solutions













Note the location and distance to power socket,
light switch.
Determine the dimensions of the Zones.
The removal of the glass sliding barrier should be
replaced with a shower curtain.
With a shower curtain in place: The power outlet
should be disconnected. It may be relocated on
the other side of the basin. No change to the light
switch is required.
If a curtain is not installed: The light switch should
be waterproofed or relocated.
If a care worker is assisting with the curtain partly
open, the curtain should be opened from the
“distant wall” opposite the fixed plumbing outlet
(FPO) – decreasing expose of the socket to water
splash/spray.
Opening the curtain from the “near wall” closer to
the fixed plumbing outlet exposes the light switch
to water splash.
The last ring of the shower curtain should be fixed
to the wall closest to the FPO. This is to prevent the
curtain from being opened to expose the light
switch to Zone 1.
This should be documented clearly in the service
plan.
If the curtain will be fully open during showering,
then a plastic sheet should be used to cover the
light switch.
Care should be taken that water splash has not
made the bathroom floor slippery. The bathroom
floor should be dried with a dry mop or towel after
showering.
Provide client/carer with written and verbal advice
on the correct use of a hand-held shower hose.
Document procedure in service plan.
9 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
n
Scenarios
Scenario 4



Client showering independently seated on a
bathboard, using a shower hose attached to
the shower fixed plumbing outlet. Without a
curtain in place.
There is a power socket and a light switch in
the room.
Explain what you would do in this situation to
address safety issues. Consider the effect of
a shower curtain in this situation.
Solutions









Arrange for the installation of a shower
curtain.
Without a curtain the power point in the
bathroom falls into Zone 2 and must be
disconnected.
With a curtain in place and drawn across during
showering, the power point is in Zone 3 and can
remain unchanged.
Even with a curtain partly drawn (open from the
far wall), the spray of water is contained.
The light switch is in Zone 3 (with or without the
curtain).
Monitor splash on the floor.
Care should be taken when the client is stepping
out of the bath that water plash has not made the
bathroom floor slippery. Ensure that the
bathroom floor is dried with a dry mop or towel
after showering.
Provide client/carer with written and verbal advice
on the correct use of a hand-held shower hose.
It is advisable to fix the end curtain ring adjacent
the wall to prevent the curtain from being opened
from the “near wall” to the shower hose.
10 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Scenario 5





Client with limited mobility showers seated
on a mobile shower chair.
There is limited space in the bathroom
(shower over bath). The only option is for
client to be showered over floor drain.
A push-on rubber hand-held shower hose
used from basin.
There is a power point and a light switch in
the room.
What are the safety measures you would
need to take before starting this service?
Solutions










Showering a client over the floor drain
completely changes the nature of the
bathroom. This situation is not covered in the Standard. Power
points and light switches would have been installed with
allowance only for splash from the bath and splash from the
basin. As this is a temporary change of use of the bathroom,
temporary strategies may be used to decrease the risk.
The light switch must be covered with a plastic sheet during
showering. Waterproofing (IPX4) or relocating the light switch is
optional.
The power point must be covered with a plastic sheet during showering. Disconnecting the
power point is optional.
It is important to check that there is adequate drainage of water to the floor trap. Bathroom
floors are not designed to be used for showering. The gradient of bathroom floors is more
shallow than the gradient required inside an alcove.
Ensure that the bathroom floor is dried with a dry mop or towel after showering. Consider
non-slip mats or floor treatment.
The standards do not refer to the scenario of a
push-on hose used from a hand basin.
For practical purposes, the measurement of
the extent of Zone 1 should be taken from the
middle of the bathroom floor where showering
is to take place.
Document procedure in service plan.
Push-on hoses should be clamped around
basin outlet to prevent “blowing off” under
pressure.
Covering the plug with a towel will contain
spray in the event of a hose “blow off”.
11 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Scenarios
Scenario 5 (continued)



Why is the power point so close to the hand basin?
The Australian Standards 3018 Electrical Installations
– Domestic, gives a dimension of Zone 2 surrounding
a hand basin (fixed water container with capacity less
than 45L). Basins are designed to contain a small
volume of water with a downward flow into the drain.
Attaching a rubber hose changes the nature of the
plumbing fixture, and increases the likelihood of water
spray into switches.
An adjustable clamp may be needed to hold the hose
on taps when in use.
Basin Zones
12 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Electrical Safety Check List
The questions listed below should be used to guide clinical reasoning around bathroom
modifications and provision of in-home services.
The following documents should be used to guide decision making:



AS3000 Amendment 3 – Electrical Installations
DCSA Bathroom Electrical Safety Procedure
Principles for Managing Electrical Safety in Bathrooms
 Identify:
 Identify:
 Identify:
 Identify:
 Outline:
 Communication:
Switches/sockets/devices in bathroom
Distance from Fixed Plumbing Outlet (FPO) & Zone
Barriers currently in place/to be installed
If barriers have been removed
If showering is to take place over a floor drain
If the removal of barriers or change in use of the bathroom has resulted
in changes to the dimension of bathroom Zones? Are there now
switches/sockets/devices located in Zone 1 or 2?
Strategy to prevent water entering electrical outlets in Zones 1 and 2
How will this strategy be communicated to:
 Staff - documented in service plan
 Client/carer – written information
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DFC Procedure – Bathroom Electrical Safety
The Department for Families and Communities (DFC) is committed to providing equitable, inclusive
and culturally appropriate services in an environment that has due regard to the health, safety and
well being of clients, carers and staff.
This procedure guides Domiciliary Care SA and Disability SA staff in the assessment for bathroom
modifications or hand held showers that is required to assist with function and independence in the
client’s home. Bathroom electrical safety will also need to be assessed for the provision of personal
support services.
This procedure has been based on the advice provided by the Office of the Technical Regulator
(OTR), Department for Transport, Energy & Infrastructure, Government of South Australia and risk
analysis performed by Domiciliary Care SA clinical staff.
Although all new electrical work must comply with Statutory Regulations (AS3000), these
standards apply to electricians performing electrical work. Clinical staff do not need to ensure that
bathrooms comply with the standards. However, AS3000 should be used as a guide in the
management of risk especially when planning home modifications and in-home personal care
services. The important principle of bathroom electrical safety is preventing the entry of water into
switches/sockets/devices.
1.
Installation of hand held showers and removal of barriers in bathrooms are category 1 home
modifications and provision of push-on shower hoses are category 1 equipment items.
2.
Item specific approved prescriber status is required for prescription of hand held or push on
showers and/or removal of barriers in a bathroom. Only Domiciliary Care SA or Disability SA
staff who have completed the training course in Electrical Safety and Bathroom Design can
prescribe.
3.
Wherever possible, showering should occur in a bathroom in an alcove or over a bath. Where
this is not possible, the alternative location is considered to be a washroom and electrical
safety must be assessed.
4.
The clinician must locate all switches, power sockets and luminaries in the bathroom/
washroom.
4.1.
5.
When possible the clinician will ascertain from the client or carer if the house has a
Residual Current Device fitted.
The clinician will measure distances from the fixed water source to any switch, power socket
or other fixed electrical devices in the bathroom/washroom and take into account existing
barriers, either fixed or portable.
5.1.
In the case where the alcove and/or bath can not be used for showering and the area
becomes a washroom, then the clinician will measure the distance from the position at
which the showering is taking place to any electrical fittings.
6.
AS/NZS 3000 should be used as a guide to determine whether any additional risk
management strategies need to be implemented in the particular bathroom/washroom
situation.
7.
When there are modifications or equipment requests requiring approved prescriber status but
no apparent issues in ensuring electrical safety, the clinician will discuss their clinical
reasoning with an approved prescriber for the items.
14 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
DFC Procedure – Bathroom Electrical Safety
8.
When electrical safety issues are identified, the clinician will problem solve and make
recommendations that may include the following risk management strategies:
8.1.
Installing barriers including shower curtains and keeping them as closed as
practicable, or use an effective seal/barrier.
8.2.
Control water spray by keeping water pressure low.
8.3.
Direct spray away from switches/sockets/devices.
8.4.
Assistant (i.e. carer, paramedical aide, care worker, OT) to maintain control of hose
when client not able or unreliable.
8.5.
Use exhaust fans, open windows or doors to minimise steam/condensation.
9.
Clients, carers and staff will be provided with information sheets to inform them of general
bathroom electrical safety risks and safety recommendations.
10.
Clients and carers can be given information regarding possible electrical modifications they
may choose to make by engaging a private electrician.
11.
When a clinician completes a review of a bathroom or personal care service they will follow
the steps above to determine if the bathroom meets electrical safety guidelines.
12.
If no safe alternative is identified by the approved prescriber, they should consult with site
based Bathroom and Electrical Safety resource person or Team Manager, CSA Team
Leader/Palliative Liaison Officer (PLO) to further investigate options. This may include
consultation with the Office of the Technical Regulator.
13.
In the exceptional circumstances where no safe alternative exists and it is identified that
electrical modification to the bathroom/washroom need to occur prior to the commencement
of showering services, proceed as follows following approval by the delegate (refer to
Seeking delegate approval for home modifications).
13.1.
Client and staff to use alternate safe method e.g. sponge in shower chair or avoid task
prior to electrical work being undertaken. For Domiciliary Care SA, the service plan
must be updated to reflect this.
13.2.
If the client/carer is willing to undertake and fund the necessary electrical
modifications, DFC will provide the necessary equipment/home modification and
information to facilitate the client engaging an electrician.
13.3.
If the client/carer is willing to undertake the necessary electrical modifications, but
cost is a barrier, DFC will provide the necessary equipment/modification and the
Service Coordinator will assist the client to achieve compliance:
13.3.1
Referring to external sources e.g. local council where this option exists.
13.3.2
Application for subsidised funding up to $500 via Domiciliary Care SA
donations account or via Disability SA brokerage.
15 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
DFC Procedure – Bathroom Electrical Safety
For Domiciliary Care SA only:

Complete donations application form located on Intranet (F-DCSA/GA
5.05-1).

Team Leader to endorse. Client Services Manager to approve up to
$200. General Manager Client Services to approve up to $500.

Service to be engaged by householder (consider Council list of ‘honest
brokers’ or ‘Stay at Home Modifications Service’).

Invoice from supplier for amounts not exceeding $500 to be made out
to ‘Domiciliary Care SA’ attention General Manager Client Services
(Norwood Office) for payment.
13.3.3
If quote for necessary works exceeds $500 and client unable to pay balance,
request to be referred to General Manager Client Services for attention of
Executive Director prior to work proceeding.
13.3.4
If no safe alternative exists and electrical compliance can be achieved but
homeowner refuses to have this work undertaken whether costs are
subsidized or not, the equipment/modification is not to be provided by DFC.
Where this means that a personal support service cannot be safely delivered
the client/carer need to be informed that this is the outcome of the
homeowner’s decision. If the homeowner is Housing SA refer matter to
Team Leader/Client Services Manager for follow up.
14. All recommendations must be clearly documented in service plans and clinical reasoning
documented in progress notes.
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AS3000 Section 6 Figures - Zones
AS/NZS 3000 (2007)
17 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
AS3000 Section 6 Figures - Zones
18 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
AS3000 Table 6.1
19 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Bathroom Electrical Safety
Client Information
The installation of a hand held shower hose has been recommended to increase your safety and
comfort in the shower.
In providing you with the hand held shower hose, it is important to remind you that the incorrect
use of this equipment can result in injury.
For example, electric shock from water spraying into power points, falls on wet floor surfaces, and
scalding due to changes in water temperature
The following are guidelines for safe use of your hand held shower hose.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
Turning on the water

Do not use the shower hose with full water pressure as it can be difficult to control the spray
of water, and uncomfortable on fragile skin.
Checking the temperature

Monitor changes in temperature during the showering routine to avoid shock or scalding from
sudden changes in water temperature.

Direct the water away from the skin when you are adjusting the temperature.
Barriers

Shower doors and curtains are effective barriers against water spraying outside of the shower
alcove and should be kept closed at all times.

If someone is helping you with showering, the door or curtain should be closed as far as
possible to limit water spray.
Controlling the shower hose

The shower hose should only be used inside the shower alcove or over the bath. It should not
be used outside of these areas.

Do not leave the shower-hose hanging and spinning during use. Place it in a wall mounted
bracket to control the hose when you need to use both hands for washing.

Keep the water spray directed into the shower alcove at all times.
Slippery floors

Be aware that water spray onto the bathroom floor through an open door may increase the
risk of slipping.

Use non-slip mats and bath mats on the floor to control the slip risk.

If someone is helping you with showering, with a door or curtain slightly open, they should
make sure the floor has been dried before you step out.
Ventilation

Avoid the build up of condensation in the bathroom during showering by keeping fans on, the
door slightly ajar and keeping showers short.
Electrical safety

Ensure that water spray from the hose is directed away from electrical fittings at all times.

Electrical devices such as blow heaters, heaters, hair dryers, should remain disconnected
and either placed in a cupboard or taken out of the room or while showering.
20 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Bathroom Electrical Safety
Client Information

It is advisable for all households to have an Residual Current Device (Electrical Safety
Switch) installed for general electrical safety.
Who can use your hand held shower hose?

The hand held shower hose has been provided for your use. If another person (family or
visitor) is going to use this equipment it is important that you explain the precautions and
safety instructions. Keep this instruction sheet handy for future reference.

Children and visitors with memory loss or dementia should be supervised when using the
hand-held shower hose to make sure that safety recommendations are followed.
Care and Maintenance

Regularly check the hose for wear or damage.

If the water flow becomes restricted the shower hose head can be removed for cleaning with
an old toothbrush.
If you have any concerns about the shower hose contact your Service Coordinator or Key Contact
to arrange a review.
For further information please contact your local Domiciliary Care SA / ASSIST office.
21 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Bathroom Electrical Safety
Care Worker Information
An Occupational Therapist from Department for Families and Communities (DFC) has
recommended the installation of a hand held shower hose to increase the safety and comfort of
your client’s showering routine.
The Occupational Therapist has assessed the client and their bathroom to determine the client’s
level of independence in showering, the need for assistance, their ability to use a shower hose and
other items of equipment provided and hazards in the bathroom including electrical hazards.
It is important for you to remember some precautions when using the hand held shower hose to
minimise safety risks that could occur when using this equipment.
The following are guidelines for safe use of your hand held shower hose and should be used in
conjunction with the service plan written by the Occupational Therapist.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
Turning on the water

Do not turn the tap to full pressure when there is a shower hose installed as the pressure can
make the shower hose hard to hold and spin out of control.

Do not leave it dangling and spinning while the water is running.

Be aware full water pressure results in a stronger spray that can also be uncomfortable for
the client.
Checking the temperature

Direct the water away from you and the client when you are adjusting the temperature.

As the water temperature can fluctuate with hand held showers keep your finger in the flow of
the water so you can check for temperature changes and move the spray away from your
client immediately if necessary.
Barriers

Shower doors and curtains are effective barriers against spraying water which could present
a hazard where electrical switches or appliances are in the bathroom.

When assisting a client with showering, the door or curtain should be closed as far as
possible to minimise splash.

Barriers between the water spray zone and electrical outlets in the room may have been
recommended and installed by the Occupational Therapist; always ensure you check the
service plan.
Controlling the shower hose

The fixed hand held shower hose should only be used inside the shower alcove/or over the
bath as prescribed by the Occupational Therapist and within the service plan guidelines.

Make sure you maintain control of the hose at all times for both you and your client’s comfort
and safety.

When you need both hands free for periods to assist the client, use one of the wall mounted
brackets to hold the shower head in place. Only let the client hold the hose if they can reliably
do this. Do not leave it dangling.

Ensure the water spray is never directed towards electrical fittings (power points, lights, light
switches, heaters, etc).
22 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Bathroom Electrical Safety
Care Worker Information
Slippery floors

Be aware of water spray onto the bathroom floor, the risk of slipping is increased for you and
your client.

Where the use of non-slip mats is indicated on the care plan, ensure these are in place.

Make sure the floor has been dried and is not wet and slippery when the client is transferring
out of the shower.
Electrical appliances

Electrical appliance (e.g. blow heaters, washing machines and hair dryers) must be switched
off, disconnected and not used in the bathroom whilst the shower is in use.
Shower mountings

The shower hose and wall bracket must not be used to pull up on as they are not a weight
bearing fixture and may pull of the wall – consult with the Occupational Therapist if you think
installation of a weight beating support rail may be necessary for your client.
Client capacity precautions

Clients with memory loss or dementia should be supervised when using a hand held shower
hose.
Ventilation and condensation

Condensation needs to be kept to a minimum in a bathroom where electrical outlets exist;
keep the door slightly ajar for good airflow and ensure exhaust fans are on during showering.

Keep showers short to avoid condensation build up over time.
Plastic barriers

In some cases, a service plan will specify a plastic barrier is to be used to protect electrical
switches, power points or lights. These must be installed using the recommended tape prior
to commencing the shower routine according to the directions on the service plan.
Rubber plug-on shower hose

Use a clamp to decrease the risk of the hose “blowing-off” the basin/bath outlet due to water
pressure.

Cover the join between the hose and taps with a hand towel to prevent accidental water
spray.
Care and Maintenance

Regularly check the components of the shower hose as they can wear, perish or rust over
time.

If the water flow becomes restricted or loses its fine spray, remove the screw in the shower
head (if present) and clean the outlet with an old toothbrush.

After use, drain the water out of the hose before hanging it up.
Check any electrical power point in the room; if it has been covered with a shower curtain or a
temporary cover of firm plastic held in place with waterproof tape check that the tape still has a
complete and firm seal.
If you have any concerns regarding bathroom electrical safety issues, please report these to the
client’s Service Coordinator or Key Contact / ASSIST clinician.
23 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11
Diagram - Plastic Sheet and Tape
When clients are showered over a floor drain, additional precaution may be required to prevent
water splash from entering power outlets, light switches and other electrical devices.
The following are instructions for using the sheet and tape:

A 600 x 600mm plastic sheet should be taped against the wall with the socket positioned
under the centre of the sheet.

A single line of tape across the top of the sheet is adequate.

Blue (low adhesive) masking tape should be used on painted walls to decrease risk of
paintwork being damaged. Take care when peeling off the tape.

White (regular) masking tape should be used on tiled walls.

The sheet should be removed following completion of the shower.
Tape along top edge of sheet
Plastic Sheet
Cover Before
Showering
600
mm
600 mm
A notice reading “Cover Before Showering” should remain above the outlet as a reminder to use
the sheet and tape.
24 DFC EP/ Children & Adults: Bathroom electrical safety document kit 9/3/11