What is the minimum height above a finished floor for installing lighting track, unless protected?

The minimum height for installing lighting track above a finished floor, unless it is protected, is 5 feet. This requirement is in place primarily for safety reasons, as it helps prevent accidental contact with the lighting track by people walking in the area. Tracks installed too low could pose a risk of injury, especially in residential environments where there may be children or pets.

Height regulations like this are typically derived from electrical safety codes that aim to ensure that lighting fixtures remain unobtrusive and do not interfere with normal daily movement within a space. Keeping the track at 5 feet or higher minimizes the risk of users bumping into or reaching for the track. This height requirement also helps to ensure that the lighting is effective and can illuminate the space adequately without being obstructed.