Yes, cable tray supports must be properly secured to ensure safety, structural integrity, and compliance with electrical codes.

Importance of Securing Supports

Cable trays are designed to support and route electrical cables over long distances, but they are not intended to carry additional loads such as people or heavy equipment . Properly securing the supports ensures that the tray can withstand the weight of the cables, environmental forces (wind, ice, vibration), and any short-circuit forces that may occur . Unsecured or improperly supported trays can sag, deform, or fail, potentially damaging cables and creating safety hazards.

Installation Guidelines

• Support Spacing: Supports should be installed at intervals recommended by the manufacturer or according to standards such as BS EN 61537 and NEC Article 392. Ladder trays, for example, often require supports every 3–4 feet, while solid-bottom trays may have different spacing requirements .
• Attachment Methods: Supports can be mounted to ceilings, walls, or floors using brackets, hangers, or channel systems. All mounting hardware must be rated for the load and environmental conditions .
• Bonding and Grounding: When metal trays are used, supports must allow for proper electrical continuity and grounding to meet NEC 392.60 requirements. This ensures the tray can serve as an equipment grounding conductor if needed .
• Environmental Considerations: In corrosive or high-moisture environments, materials such as stainless steel or fiberglass-reinforced plastic may be used, and supports must be compatible with these materials to maintain long-term stability .

Safety and Compliance

Securing cable tray supports is not optional; it is a critical safety requirement. Properly installed supports prevent mechanical failure, maintain cable organization, and ensure compliance with electrical codes. Additionally, securing supports helps maintain the correct cable bend radius and prevents excessive sagging, which can lead to overheating or insulation damage .

Summary

Cable tray supports must be securely fastened using appropriate hardware, spaced according to standards, and designed to handle the expected loads. This ensures the system is safe, reliable, and code-compliant, protecting both the cables and personnel working around the installation .