Bridging for Bar Joist

[eatapeach]

Would the bridging installed between bar joist be considered structural? I'm asking because the MEP section of the specifications state that all MEP attachments are to be supported from a structural member.

 

[birneys]

No, typical joist bridging is not suitable for suspending MEP equipment. Any suspended loads should be supported directly from the steel joists at panel points or from additional framing specifically designed to support vertical loads. Bridging is typically only sized to provide lateral stability for the joists.

 

[Ron247]

Ditto,
Unless bridging is designed for additional loads (it generally is not) you cannot add load to it. You can span new members between bar joists to support loads but there are rules about the location of these added members. As stated above, loads tend to get placed near panel points on bar joists.

 

[CANPRO]

Interesting that the mechanical contractor wants to use the bridge to support equipment - usually they're cutting the bridging out of the way. I guess hanging equipment from it is slightly better than just removing it outright.