Installation of a flushmount recessed looking like fixtures

[Alexis]

Hello,
We are doing an installation of flushmount lights in an apartment building and in order to comply with 2 hr fire rating we are using these boxes

Here are the lights:


We did a bunch of these apartments in 2022 and I passed inspections for 5 pf them. The rest I decided to wait to get permits in batch..

When I did an inspection yesterday, first of all I learned that code changed and now all boxes must be fan rated, ispector may give me some slack for that, since it is a new code.

But now he is saying that we must have these boxes attached to a stud in order to have any fixtures installed, is this true and was true before the recent code change?

It looks like they may force me to redo 15 apartments...

Thank you so much!

 

[LarryFine]

What matters is the code that was in effect when the permit was obtained.

 

[Alexis]

What matters is the code that was in effect when the permit was obtained.

That is true. But as I mentioned they are ok letting me go on the fan code, but I can't find any codes about these boxes must be mounted to a structural element..

 

[stretch12]

For fire rated constructions, I believe boxes have to be attached to framing members. We did a ton 150+ for a condo and all fire rated ceilings had to have a metal 4 in octagon , cause that’s what the lights would fit in attached to structure and the light would only fit into that

 

[letgomywago]

Those aren't rated for 50 lbs like a normal ceiling fixture box. It's a technicality that's silly with disk lights but theoretically any light fixture could be installed. Those I think say 15lbs for WALL fixtures. You can use them if independent support is provided to the back of them that can hold 50 lbs. This is why bar hangers are build the way they are vs being like a standard flat Caddy bracket.

 

[letgomywago]

For fire rated constructions, I believe boxes have to be attached to framing members. We did a ton 150+ for a condo and all fire rated ceilings had to have a metal 4 in octagon , cause that’s what the lights would fit in attached to structure and the light would only fit into that

These boxes are 2 hour firerated. Steel is not the only option. Also putty pads aren't necessary with all nonmetalic fire rated boxes but this is often still enforced by confused building officials.

 

[Alexis]

@letgomywago @stretch12

Thank you for your input! So it sounds like any boxes, even that are used for a smoke detector must be attached to a stud? In theory someone could install a light fixture there or a fan.

What would these boxes be designed for then if they state that they "support fans up to 6lb"?

 

[letgomywago]

@letgomywago @stretch12

Thank you for your input! So it sounds like any boxes, even that are used for a smoke detector must be attached to a stud? In theory someone could install a light fixture there or a fan.

What would these boxes be designed for then if they state that they "support fans up to 6lb"?

View attachment 2565229

Not 50lbs it's a no go for this application

 

[LarryFine]

What would these boxes be designed for then if they state that they "support fans up to 6lb"?

Looks like a typo; it should say "lights" in my opinion. No fan is that light (no pun intended).