Seismic Restraint of HVAC in Canada

[atrizzy]

Howdy folks, I'm a structural engineer looking for a bit of input from you HVAC folks experienced with the West Coast of Canada.
Are there any guides or codes that need to be followed in addition to the requirements of NBCC 4.1.8.18 for restraining ductwork, sprinkler piping, etc? Or is this stuff typically allowed to swing and deflect providing nothing is at risk of damage?

The NBCC seismic components of buildings clause above seems appropriate for heavy units, AHUs, pumps, etc if suspended from a ceiling, but it seems a little stringent for ducts and small, light pipes.

What do you say? And thanks in advance!

 

[GT-EGR]

Not familiar with NBCC seismic requirements, but I am with West Coast of USA ASCE requirements.

The only general answer I can give somewhat related to your question is that you have to consider how important the building is and whether or not your seismic provisions are intended to minimize earthquake related damage, or if they have to keep the systems up and running after an earthquake.

Additionally there are exceptions for lighter equipment, smaller pipes (they give a lb/ft value), items close to the floor, where hangers are short, and a few others.