Electrical Safety for London Gyms, Studios and Salons

Gyms, fitness studios, hair and beauty salons and barbers all rely heavily on electricity. Treadmills, sunbeds, hairdryers, straighteners, steamers and water heaters draw a lot of power, often in rooms with water and many customers coming and going. This guide covers the electrical checks that matter for these businesses in London. It is general information, not legal advice.

Who is responsible

The business owner or operator is usually responsible for keeping the electrical installation and equipment safe for staff and customers. If you rent the unit, check your lease to see which checks the landlord covers and which fall to you. Insurers often ask for an up to date EICR and PAT records.

Fixed wiring: EICR

An EICR checks the fixed wiring, sockets, lighting and distribution boards. Busy commercial premises are commonly inspected every five years, and some insurers ask for more frequent checks. Our guide to EICRs for commercial units and shops explains what to expect.

Salons: high loads and water

• Several hairdryers and straighteners running at once can overload sockets and circuits designed for a shop.
• Backwash basins and treatment rooms bring water close to sockets and equipment.
• Instant water heaters and boilers need suitable dedicated circuits.
• Trailing leads across a busy floor are a trip hazard as well as a damage risk.

If circuits trip at busy times, the installation may need extra circuits rather than more adaptors. See our guide on why an RCD keeps tripping.

Gyms and studios: heavy equipment and showers

Treadmills and other powered machines often need their own sockets or circuits, as recommended by the manufacturer. Changing rooms with electric showers, hand dryers and hair dryers need the right protection and fittings for wet areas. Sound systems and lighting rigs in studios add further load.

Portable appliances

Salon tools and gym equipment are handled constantly and wear quickly. Regular visual checks by staff and periodic PAT testing help catch damaged cables and plugs early. See our guide to PAT testing.

Emergency lighting and fire alarms

Premises open to the public usually need emergency lighting on escape routes and a suitable fire alarm, as set out in the fire risk assessment. Our guide to emergency lighting testing explains the routine.

Book an inspection

Energy North Ltd inspects gyms, studios and salons across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians, and can work outside opening hours. See our EICR service.