Recessed downlights not permitted near loose fill insulation

[JamieP]

Most, if not all, recessed downlights I install regardless of being IC-F or IC-4 rating do not permit being installed anywhere near loose fill insulation

Usually I just scoop it out and clear at least 50mm around the downlight cutout on accordance with Figure 4.7 C

I've just read 4.5.2.3.3 "(e) Where clearances are to be applied (compliance method 4.5.2.3.1(iii))
and bulk thermal insulation is not fixed in position, one of the following
means shall be provided and secured in position to maintain the
clearances:
(i) A barrier complying with AS/NZS 5110.
(ii) A guard complying with AS 3999.
(iii) A barrier or guard constructed of fire-resistant materials."

This makes me feel what I have been doing is non-compliant but curious of any input

What are people using for barriers or guards in this or similar situations?

[JamieP]

I've just noticed NZ has figure 4.9 so I assume the clearance I should be using for the loose fill is 100mm not the 50mm I stated above

[AlecK]

Clearly you're putting your lock-down down-time to good use. well done.
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Yes the required separation distance is 100 mm, but NOT from Fig 4.7.
Being in NZ, you should be using 4.5.2.3.4 &Fig 4.9
Remembering that these (both Figs) are default clearances that apply where MIs are silent
And in NZ case, for any luminaire complying with the cited product standard, MIs are not allowed to be silent

For barriers to restrain loose-fill insulation, try a strip of sheet metal and a couple of pop rivets

Note that batts are also not "fixed in position; but as they are cohesive rather than loose-fill, the answer is easier: a couple of squirts of builder's glue from your gunk gun will ensure they don't get moved too close to the luminaire

[JamieP]

Clearly you're putting your lock-down down-time to good use. well done.

Hahaha I was waiting for someone to comment on my large number of posts and catch on to the fact I'm reading through 3000 from start to finish. Most things I have a fairly decent grip on but no harm in seeking clarification or second opinions whether the question may seem silly or not, may help someone else in the future

And as always appreciate the reply

[JamieP]

Batts aren't normally an issue for me because the downlights I use are allowed to be covered but as I said it's the fact the MIs say that loose fill is not permitted anywhere near the downlights

[Daniel2]

The fibres make a 'popping' sound when the land on the hot electronic parts (PCB) in an LED downlight.