Why are light switches placed outside bathroom?

THEY are not ‘always’ outside, however it is true that traditionally they often are – this is to avoid any risk of electrocution from splashing water onto it from the shower or bath.

There are certain distances from the shower head or bath that have to be respected so in fact it is not illegal to have the switch in the room apart from, for example, in a small space where the required distance cannot be met. Electricians are trained to take account of the latest standards on this.