Lighting fixture connecting device with safety means

Abstract

A connecting device for securing a vertically suspended lighting fixture to the housing of an electrical junction (wiring) box in such a manner that the lighting fixture can be pivoted to an open position to enable interconnection of the fixture's and junction box's electrical wiring in a safe, facile manner. The device includes a safety means to prevent accidental removal (separation) of the fixture and junction box while in the pivoted, open position. In a preferred embodiment, the invention includes a pair of planar, substantially rectangular plate members. A first of these members is designed for being attached to the junction box and the second for being secured to the lighting fixture. Located on the second plate is a pair of upwardly projecting tab members adapted for being inserted within a corresponding pair of elongated openings located within the first plate member. The safety means is in the form of an upwardly projecting segment located on an upper surface of the first plate, said segment designed for being engaged by one of the projecting tab members during the described, pivoted position of the lighting fixture.