Home
Products
SFC Products Selecting the Right SFC How to Install
How SFC Works
How SFC Works
Positive Attachment
Understanding Positive Attachment Positive Attachment Defined Industry's Attempt to Comply SFC Meets Code AC184
Benefits
Patented Design Benefits Reduces Risk to Human Lives Minimizes Building Damage Maximizes Profit Margin FEMA Compliant DoD Compliant
Building Codes
Building Codes Overview U.B.C. 1997 IBC 2006 NEC 2006 Problem with Code Compliance FAQs Contact Us
Home / FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common questions about the Seismic Fixture Clamp.

The SFC is a patented device that attaches lighting fixtures to suspended ceiling grids, ensuring they remain positively connected during seismic events. The SFC creates a Unified Ceiling Module where the fixture and grid behave as one unit.
If your jurisdiction adopts UBC, IBC, California Building Code, or NEC codes that require positive attachment of lighting fixtures to suspended ceiling systems, then SFCs are the proven solution to meet those requirements.
No. Building codes requiring positive attachment apply to all buildings with suspended ceiling systems in seismic regions, not just schools and hospitals. However, essential facilities like hospitals may have additional requirements.
The SFC is approved under multiple building codes and standards including IBC, UBC, NEC, CISCA, ASTM E 580, FEMA, and DoD specifications. It is also OSHPD Approved (OPA-2187-10). Contact us for jurisdiction-specific information.
No. Positive attachment requirements apply to all suspended ceiling systems in seismic regions, regardless of whether the ceiling itself is seismically braced.
The SFC models are designed for different lighting fixture configurations (single, end-to-end, side-by-side, 2'x2', etc.), not different seismic zones. All models meet the same AC184 compliance standards.
If existing ceilings are in seismic regions and do not have proper positive attachment, retrofitting with SFCs is recommended to meet code requirements and protect building occupants.
Please contact AGI directly for distributor information in your area.
SFC installation is quick and straightforward, requiring no specialized tools. This actually reduces overall labor costs compared to installing slack wires, which the SFC eliminates the need for.
Screws alone do not meet the intent of positive attachment as defined by AC184. Screws can fail under seismic forces, allowing the fixture to separate from the grid. The SFC provides AC184-compliant positive attachment that keeps the fixture and grid connected as one unified module.