ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Foot Traffic? [from another electrical mesage board]

From: http://www.eng-tips.com/gviewthread.cfm/lev2/11/lev3/47/pid/248/qid/52089

I need to determine the load rating for Square-Duct metal wireway (8"). The electricians walk on the overhead wireways on occassion and the question of whether or not the wireways provide adequate support has come up. I don't see a specification for this in the technical documentaion.

From my research so far, neither NEC article 376 nor maufacturers of wireway list a specification for point loading from personnel walking on the wireways.
Can you help me with this question? Thanks.

E-C.net readers, what would be your suggestion?

Bjarney, I would think it would be as simple as contacting the manufacturer.

I have installed floor duct that stated on the cover, "Not for walking on", or something to that effect.

Roger

Bjarney:
That is an excellent question!
The mfg may give an answer.....
It probably will be "we do not intend that it be used for support of personel"

Thinking about this, in the lawyer crazy, suit filled world that we are a part of...
implying that an item "could" be used for a purpose, can land anyone in court. I'm not bashing lawyers, but.....

IF it could possibly be approved OSHE probably would require a guard rail, toe kicks, and a tie-down beam!!!

Good Luck
John

Bjarney,
I would be willing to bet that Square D will tell you they are NOT rated for a walkway, they are certainly not listed for such use.

May I suggest if this is a normal pathway that someone take some all thread and kindorf and make a walkway so as not to damage the wireway?

I would not look for an attorney to solve our problem here, we created the problem by walking on electrical equipment.

Don't think I'd like to have a go at walking on it.
If it collapses, what is the first question,
they'll ask?.