Who should specify ceiling fans? The architectural specifier or mechanical engineer?
I typically specify ceiling fans.
Electrical normally shows them on their fixture schedule, though as Architect I usually select them and tell them what to list
Specifier in consultation with the structural engineer for Big Ass fans.
This would have to be a very big fan to require larger structural members. If there was a need for details showing the bracing of these fans it would normally be considered an additional service by the structural engineer.
I’ve spec’d several over the years. Actually, they are pretty cool (pardon the pun). Our biggest concern was not the weight but the vibration and dynamics.
Typical ceiling fans (up to about 60-in diameter are electrical fixtures (may including lighting).
The larger “big ass fans” affect the mechanical design of the project, and on the last several projects I have worked on, the MEP has specified them.
As J. Peter Jordan says, Big Ass Fans ™ are definitely a mechanical item.
Residential ceiling fans are in Division 11, and my experience trying to get engineers to prepare sections outside of “their” divisions hasn’t been great.