wire cages for protection of light fixtures

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bravo69

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Fishkill, NY
Hello,

I have existing fluorescent light fixtures suspended with lamps that are exposed (no wire cages or lens). Is there a code requirement to have protection for the lamps, especially in mechanical spaces? It makes sense where you dont want to damage the lamps and have the lamps fall down on people.

Thank you in advance
 
In general I agree with Bob, not required.

However, some areas where they may be required include gyms where balls are likely to impact the fixture (not sure which code, it may be a State code that doesn't apply everywhere), restaurants and food prep areas (State Health Code), elevator equip. rooms and pits (ASME 17.1), and above classified hazardous areas (NEC). I'm sure there are many more areas.

But for a general mechanical room, it might be a good idea, but I don't think its required.
 
OSHA requires all tubes be protected by the fixture or a guard:

http://www.shatrshield.com/regulations/

1910.305(a)(2)(ix)
All lamps for general illumination shall be protected from accidental contact or breakage by a suitable fixture or lampholder with a guard. Brass shell, paper-lined sockets, or other metal-cased sockets may not be used unless the shell is grounded.
 
JFletcher said:
OSHA requires all tubes be protected by the fixture or a guard:

http://www.shatrshield.com/regulations/

1910.305(a)(2)(ix)
All lamps for general illumination shall be protected from accidental contact or breakage by a suitable fixture or lampholder with a guard. Brass shell, paper-lined sockets, or other metal-cased sockets may not be used unless the shell is grounded.
Click to expand...

I'm not quite convinced that is the intent. If a fixture is mounted up high, and the lamps are somewhat recessed, couldn't that qualify as being protected from accidental contact, even if the fixture doesn't have a guard on the bottom?

If not, why do they make lights without a guard? (High bay fluorescent lights, for example.)
 
(F) Lamps for general illumination
shall be protected from accidental contact
or breakage. Protection shall be
provided by elevation of at least 7 feet
from normal working surface or by a
suitable fixture or lampholder with a
guard.
 
dkidd said:
(F) Lamps for general illumination
shall be protected from accidental contact
or breakage. Protection shall be
provided by elevation of at least 7 feet
from normal working surface or by a
suitable fixture or lampholder with a
guard.
Click to expand...

It would be helpful if you provided some info like the code, article and section.
 
looks to me like section 1910.305(a)(2) applies to temporary lighting - like on a construction site. your temporary lights need cages.
looks to me like 305(J)(1) applies to fixtures and has no such guard requirement.
 
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