Design loads for Interior Trellis 1

[RARWOOD]

I am looking at an interior nonstructural open frame work which is intended for decorative use only. The frame work is similar to an interior trellis.

Are there any IBC or ASCE-7 requirements that would cover this type of application?

In the past when I worked for an A/E firm I would be conservative in the design of this type of element. Usually applying a point load to provide a known stiffness to prevent against someone bumbing it and knocking it down.

In my case now, I am looking at an architectural frame drawn up by an architect where the member sizes are already set. The frame has very little design capacity beyond its own weight.

Are there code requirements which require nonstructural elements to carry load in addition to their dead load?

 

[haynewp]

I would apply the interior partition load normally used (5psf) to the solid area of the trellis. If it can take this load and support its own weight I don't see why it wouldn't be fine, if not overdesigned.