Suspending Lights from EMT

Mross506

Member
Location
Central Ohio
Occupation
Process Implementation Manager

Situation:


A healthy debate started today in the shop regarding whether we are allowed to hand LED light fixtures from EMT using jack chain. (EMT is installed to code).

I've always been trained that it was not permissible to hang or support a device from EMT conduit but as I really read the code, I haven't found where it is that clear. I see where I can't attach other raceways or cable to it and I cannot allow it to be the only support for an enclosure or light but the pictures in the code refer to a device being attached to the end of the conduit rather than hanging from it.

I'm on the fence with it as it is a very easy way to install the lights and they are very light so I'm not worried about the conduit capacity. However, I was always brought up believing that was shoddy work...
 
I've gotta say I think 358.12(2) is one of those ridiculous, arbitrary, and dumb rules. Ok sure, hanging some heavy fixture off of 1/2" EMT right in the middle of straps that are 10 feet apart is probably not a stellar idea, but a blanket prohibition is ridiculous.
 

infinity

Moderator
Staff member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Journeyman Electrician
I've gotta say I think 358.12(2) is one of those ridiculous, arbitrary, and dumb rules. Ok sure, hanging some heavy fixture off of 1/2" EMT right in the middle of straps that are 10 feet apart is probably not a stellar idea, but a blanket prohibition is ridiculous.
I agree. If you have a large rack of EMT's running down a hallway a 10 pound fixture hung off of the 4" EMT will never be a problem.
 

Greentagger

Senior Member
Location
Texas
Occupation
Master Electrician, Electrical Inspector
I agree. If you have a large rack of EMT's running down a hallway a 10 pound fixture hung off of the 4" EMT will never be a problem.
Remember guys, “it says what it says” as I’ve been reminded before.
 
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