Can luminaires be installed in areas subject to physical damage?

Luminaires can indeed be installed in areas subject to physical damage as long as they are designed to meet the required safety ratings applicable to those environments. The National Electrical Code (NEC) acknowledges that certain luminaires are engineered to endure specific conditions, including exposure to potential impact or other forms of physical harm. These luminaires would typically have ratings that confirm their capability to withstand such conditions, such as being impact-resistant or rated for outdoor use depending on the location and expected hazards.

It's important to note that while certain luminaire ratings or features are required for installation in physically hazardous areas, other options like merely elevating luminaires or using surge protectors do not directly address the inherent design requirements necessary for protecting the luminaires from physical damage. Elevating luminaires may help reduce the likelihood of damage but does not guarantee their safety in all circumstances, and surge protectors are primarily used for voltage spikes rather than physical impacts. Thus, ensuring luminaires are appropriately rated for the specific potential hazards of their installation area is key.