Reciprocal Electrical Council Inc.

01 Jun 2012 1:57 PM

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Message # 940220

Anonymous

Do luminaries in a suspended ceiling system need to be attached both to the ceiling grid and building structure? Or is just being attached to the ceiling grid adequate?

03 Jun 2012 11:54 AM

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Reply # 941683 on 940220

George Little

This is what the NEC 2008 Edition says at 410.36(B)

(B) Suspended Ceilings. Framing members of suspended ceiling systems used to support luminaires shall be securely

fastened to each other and shall be securely attached to the building structure at appropriate intervals. Luminaires shall

be securely fastened to the ceiling framing member by mechanical means such as bolts, screws, or rivets. Listed clips

identified for use with the type of ceiling framing member(s) and luminaire(s) shall also be permitted.

The MRC does not address support of lay-in fixtures.

My understanding is normally an additional support of the fixture to the structural ceiling in addition to the framing members is not needed unless it it specified by the design professional. I guess the inspector is going to apply his definition on the word "securely" with respects fastening the ceiling members together and "securely" fastening the framing members of the suspended ceiling to the structural ceiling.

13 Jun 2012 4:41 PM

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Reply # 966475 on 940220

Steve Losacco

I would have to agree with you 100%. I hear many stores out in the feild that other inpectors make them install wires and screw them to the grid or will only accept wires to the structure for each light.

13 Jun 2012 4:44 PM

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Reply # 966477 on 940220

Steve Losacco

As far as the MRC I have been making contractors and home owners secure the lights to the grid, maybe I am wrong, although I thought we can always go back to the NEC If not in the MRC?