Track lighting,dropped cieling

[ghost]

I have a track lighting system mounted on a dropped fiberboard ceiling and was wondering if it still met code heard there where some changes about fixtures on fiberboard ceilings. Last code book I have is 1999. Commercial building wired in with conduit and MC. Would like to remove it and put in better system but will have to keep making repairs unless I can find a code violation they won't authorize change.

Thanks Dave

 

[russ]

Re: Track lighting,dropped cieling

I don't see any difference between 1999 and 2002.

Both the track light and fixture support articles are the same. If there has been a change maybe it's not NEC.

 

[hurk27]

Re: Track lighting,dropped cieling

A track light fixture need's to be supported by the framing members of the drop ceiling not the fiberboard as required by 410.16(C).

410.16
(C) Suspended Ceilings. Framing members of suspended ceiling systems used to support luminaires (fixtures) shall be securely fastened to each other and shall be securely attached to the building structure at appropriate intervals. Luminaires (fixtures) shall be securely fastened to the ceiling framing member by mechanical means such as bolts, screws, or rivets. Listed clips identified for use with the type of ceiling framing member(s) and luminaire(s) [fixture(s)] shall also be permitted.

 

[jerryb]

Re: Track lighting,dropped cieling

The installations described in the previous threads only satisfies the NEC. There my be other regulations in the local building codes that prevent the support of luminaires from a suspended ceiling system. Most building codes allow for the use of ceiling grid systems as support only if the support system is designed to carry the additional weight.

 

[iwire]

Re: Track lighting,dropped cieling

The only place I know the NEC mentions fiberboard is 410.76 and it is unchanged since 99.

410.76(B) Combustible Low-Density Cellulose Fiberboard. Where a surface-mounted luminaire (fixture) containing a ballast is to be installed on combustible low-density cellulose fiberboard, it shall be listed for this condition or shall be spaced not less than 38 mm (1? in.) from the surface of the fiberboard. Where such luminaires (fixtures) are partially or wholly recessed, the provisions of 410.64 through 410.72 shall apply.

I do not see much in that to affect track lighting.

If the issue is supporting to ceiling grids as jerryb mentions that is typical and can be over come by the use of independent support clips.

At least two companies make these that I know of.