Existing Non IC rated 2x2 troffer lights

[nitramnaed]

Hello,
We are working on a existing medical clinic remodeling. They want to install acoustical insulation above the ceiling in the exam rooms. The existing 2x2 light fixtures are not IC rated so as I understand it per 410.116 they would require a clearance of 3" around the fixture enclosure. Can we install a proprietary fire rated troffer cover over the fixture? This would not give us the 3" clearance. I'm not sure if this would meet the intent of the code.
Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks, Jeff

 

[Teeshot]

Hello,
We are working on a existing medical clinic remodeling. They want to install acoustical insulation above the ceiling in the exam rooms. The existing 2x2 light fixtures are not IC rated so as I understand it per 410.116 they would require a clearance of 3" around the fixture enclosure. Can we install a proprietary fire rated troffer cover over the fixture? This would not give us the 3" clearance. I'm not sure if this would meet the intent of the code.
Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks, Jeff

The troffers are usually accepted as meeting the intent to maintain clearance from the insulation however, the light fixture may still overheat causing an intermittent blinking situation. Check with the light manufacturer to make certain that an enclosed cover (if allowed) will not affect the operation of the fixture.