ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Support for Luminaires/Light fixtures etc.

I had often wondered over the past 30 years why this requirement for 2X4 fixture support varied evrywhere I went, then a firefighter explained he didn't like things falling on his head when trying to do his job. Since then, regardless of local requirements, I have attached wires to opposite corners and used the grid clips.

See Art 410.16 (C). Local code variations will apply. Like you said, it is different everywhere you go. So use the local requirement even though this article allows the fixture to be supported by the ceiling members. I don't support fixtures like you do, unless I have to. I make sure the ceiling grid is supported at the fixture on opposing sides. Thus the term "lay in" fixture.

This is a tbar ceiling done the California (read seismic) way.

The blue highlighted wires are the ceiling grid support wires.

The yellow highlighted wires are the independent supports to the fixture. The fixture is screwed to the grid main runner on the corners opposite those of the wires.

The duct and register are both supported by the sheet metal strap, and it is in turn supported, by an independent wire, to the structure. It is secured to the grid's main runner with screws

The tin stud seismic brace you see is screwed with multiple screws to the grid's main runner, and to the structure above. It must be perpendicular to the grid. (I think this occurs every 12 feet so that no spot on the ceiling is more than 8 feet from one).
The wires highlighted in red are seismic bracing. They are splayed in all 4 directions at angles, keeping the tin stud in compression (and securing the ceiling), and are also connected to the structure.


You can thank your lucky stars that you don't have to go through this.

--You can thank your lucky stars that you don't have to go through this. --

"You aint just whistling dixey"

Nice pic, Thanx.

You folks certainly have a world of worry and concern out there.
Is this a suspended ceiling? or sheetrock?

Either way nicely demonstrated and supported.

"Seismic" Is becomming very popular here aswell.


PS: Hope all is well with my western counterparts, See it's a tough go out that way lately.

Good luck to all.