Screwing luminaires to ceiling grid

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Mike pagano21

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Hey guys got a code Question and need some input. In Art. 410.36b It says that Luminaires shall be securley fastened to ceiling grid by means of screws, bolts, or rivets and that listed clips shall also be permitted. Correct me if I am wrong, but I read this as the lights have to be fastened to the grid by bolts, screws, or rivits and that listed clips can also be used BUT not in the place of screws, bolts, or rivits. I had an argument with my boss the other day on it and he said the clips will do. Thanks all and Happy New Year.

Mike Pagano Local 309 IBEW
 
Do the fold over tabs on the 2x2 and 2x4 llay in fixtures meet this requirement?
 
I always thought the fold-over tabs met the manufacturers requirements, but not necessarily the NEC's. Our local AHJ likes to see (i.e. requires) self-tapping screws ran in to the grid, but I find the screws have to be at least 1" or so to really run the threads in enough.
 
Our inspector spot checks the 2x4 lay in lights. He uses a stick to push up on the corners of the light. If it does not go up it's good.
But our area also requires the lights to be tied up to the bar joices with grid wire.
 
We're told that screws weaken the grid and we are only allowed to use grid clips. Also if the owners/tenants want to change things around they have those holes to deal with. I find i occasionally zip a few screws in but i try to avoid it.
 
I find it funny that we can secure a 2x4 lay-in fixture to the grid, but God forbid we secure MC cable to the ceiling wire. Am I missing something? And it's not a bad idea to have a couple wires to support each fixture, although our AHJ does not require us to do so.

BTW Mike, welcome to the forum.
 
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Most fold over clips dont meet the requirements of 410.16(C). The carton which the fixture come in may have a statement from the manufacturer stating that the fold-out clips are only there to assist in the installation, and some actually state they dont meet the intent of 410.16(C). wire hangers are not directly required by the code, but the ceiling manufacturer has support requirements to address additional weight such as lay-in type fixtures. Most specs I see require additional wires (one wire each side, caddy corner) by the designer. Listed clips will meet the intent if identified for use with the type of framing members,and luminares. One last note, when using clips the grid system the members (grid) must be securely attached to each other and the building structure.
 
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