Jack chain support 2x2 above grid

Fordean

Senior Member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Electrical Contractor
Passed inspections many times using #12 jack chain But recently had a inspector say he would not accept Never had a issue before
Jack chain fron steel joists to fixture And tie mc cable to it
Is there a code against jack chain
Cant believe this would not be adequate for 5 lb fixtures
 

Rock86

Senior Member
Location
new york
Occupation
Electrical Engineer / Electrician
Is the inspector calling you out for using the jack chain as an unapproved support method for the MC cable or the fixture?
 

Fordean

Senior Member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Electrical Contractor
Is the inspector calling you out for using the jack chain as an unapproved support method for the MC cable or the fixture?
Yes He mentioned this on a job we were renovating Existing fixtures remained and had no ties or chain at all he now wanted them tied up.

I mentioned we normally use chain
Thats when he mentioned he dont allow jack chain celing guy tied them up with wire
But this is a new job i did not have a talk with a inspector on upcoming job im using chain
Just wundering why he would not allow in his territory is chain frowned on Doing this 30 years
 
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Fordean

Senior Member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Electrical Contractor
I did not start the new job
What in a picture would u look for
Previous job Which we did not install lights Are the ones he referred to Never had a inspector cast doubt why do u ask Is there a code reference against jack chain? I never knew about if so Can you state a code reference
 

farmantenna

Senior Member
Location
mass
Passed inspections many times using #12 jack chain But recently had a inspector say he would not accept Never had a issue before
Jack chain fron steel joists to fixture And tie mc cable to it
Is there a code against jack chain
Cant believe this would not be adequate for 5 lb fixtures
no. He had no Art or section he could evoke. It is unresaonable to not allow jack chain. It could suport a small human.
 

roger

Moderator
Staff member
Location
Fl
Occupation
Retired Electrician
The inspector has no clue. The ceiling grid supports the fixture, the "slack" chain or wire is for keeping the fixture from falling if the ceiling supports fail, this can be found in the CISCA suspended ceiling guide.
 

Fordean

Senior Member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Electrical Contractor
no. He had no Art or section he could evoke. It is unresaonable to not allow jack chain. It could suport a small human.
How about jack chain screwed to metal deck Keeps chains straight
 

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John A

Member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Inspector
Are there any "Approved/Released' plans for the job? If so, do they mention 'wire' (ie: diagonal corners)?

Some inspectors inspect to the plans, and notes within the plans. That said, was this the Electrical Inspector, or Building?

As Roger said, the fixtures have to conform to 410.36 (B), and be 'attached' to the grid. The NEC does not state additional support unless the fixture is heavy and then additional support is required.

IF he failed your job, you should have a red sticker with the reason (Code Article). IMHO, there is no Code Article for "Jack Chain' in lieu of ceiling wire.
 
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