Interpretation #: CEB-2019-12-2009 IEC-410.36(B)

Building or Fire Safety Law Interpreted

675 IAC 17-1.8 2009 Indiana Electrical Code, Article 410.36 Means of Support

(B) Suspended Ceilings. Framing members of suspended ceiling systems used to support luminaires shall be securely fastened to each other and shall be securely fastened to the building structure at appropriate intervals. Luminaires 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) shall also be permitted.

Issue

Whether support of luminaires may be provided by the ceiling system, or whether they must be supported directly by the structure.

Interpretation of the State Building Commissioner

2009 IEC 410.36(B) allows luminaire support to be derived from attachment to a ceiling grid in lieu of attachment to the structure, provided certain conditions are met.

Rationale

Article 410.36 provides a list of allowable means of support for luminaires. Sub-article (B) addresses suspended ceilings as one particular method. If suspended ceiling attachment were prohibited outright, this sub-article of the code would not exist.

However, it should be noted that the presence of this section shall not be deemed a blanket endorsement of this means of support in all situations. The sub-article contains required conditions which must be met: luminaire attachment must be made by bolt, screw, or rivet, or by clips designed and listed specifically for this use; and the ceiling system must exhibit specific design and installation conditions: the ceiling framing members must be securely fastened to each other, and securely attached to the building structure at intervals appropriate to the loads brought by both the luminaire(s) and the ceiling system itself.