Luminairs in suspended ceilings

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timt72

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Do I need to fasten my florescent lights to the ceiling grid if I attach them to the building structure with wire?
 
If the luminaires are being supported by the grid the answer is yes, if the wires to the structure are the supporting means the answer is no.

See 410.16 and take note of the wording.

Roger
 
timt72 said:
Do I need to fasten my florescent lights to the ceiling grid if I attach them to the building structure with wire?
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In addition to what Roger has posted you might want to check with your local building department for any building codes requirements for suspended ceilings and light fixture attachment.

I work in a seismic zone D and there are specific requirements for the attachment of light fixtures, heating grilles ect.

Chris
 
Thanks The NEC handbook INfo for this section says if luminairs are supported independent of the suspended ceiling 410.16(c) does not apply. I agree, It makes more sense to attach them to the building structure so the don't fall if any part of the ceiling comes down. NOW our local building inspector does not agree with the notes to the article he says the people who write these options in the code book have no relevance (authority). He will only allow me to do this if I can prove UL listing for this type of installtion or get info from the lighting company .
 
Hmmm, so if he were a cop he would be saying that those who write the speed limit laws have no business doing so and he'll make up his own speed limits. :roll:

Hate to be so blunt, but if your area has adopted the NEC with no amendments, this guy is a joke.

BTW, what does he mean by "options"? Throw the handbook back in the truck and show him the article section directly from the NEC.

Roger
 
timt72 said:
The explainations to the code. who writes these?
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Oh oh, I think I see what we are talking about. The handbook commentary is just that and nothing more. The authors are IMO right in there opinions but, their opinions are not enforcible so on this point alone your building inspector is right.

That being said, 410.16 is pretty easily understood IMO and he is wrong.

The authors are

Mark W. Earley, P.E.
Editor-in-Chief
Jeffrey S. Sargent
Senior Editor
Joseph V. Sheehan, P.E.
Editor
John M. Caloggero
Editor

Roger
 
timt72 said:
Thanks The NEC handbook INfo for this section says


NOW our local building inspector does not agree with the notes to the article he says the people who write these options in the code book have no relevance (authority).
roger said:
BTW, what does he mean by "options"? Throw the handbook back in the truck...
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I will assume tim meant "opinions"....as in the commentary following the actual code in the handbook ~ which is not enforceable.

timt72 said:
The explainations to the code. who writes these?
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If you check the first few pages of your handbook (I have it on CD, hardcopy may be different)...you will see this:
Notice Concerning Code Interpretations:
This ninth edition of the National Electrical Code Handbook is based on the 2002 edition of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code. All NFPA codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides are developed in accordance with the published procedures of the NFPA by technical committees comprised of volunteers drawn from a broad array of relevant interests. The handbook contains the complete text of NFPA 70 and any applicable Formal Interpretations issued by the Association. These documents are accompanied by explanatory commentary and other supplementary materials.
The commentary and supplementary materials in this handbook are not a part of the Code and do not constitute Formal Interpretations of the NFPA (which can be obtained only through requests processed by the responsible technical committees in accordance with the published procedures of the NFPA). The commentary and supplementary materials, therefore, solely reflect the personal opinions of the editor or other contributors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the NFPA or its technical committees.
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I've always screwed them at opposite corners. Don't know if there is a applicable code. I reccomend screwing them in then attaching the wire over the screw points. Keeps the light from pulling up on the tie wire and leaving a gap.
 
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