Which requirement is associated with suspended ceilings according to regulations?

The correct answer highlights an important structural and safety requirement for suspended ceilings. Horizontal restraint points being no more than 12 feet apart helps ensure that the ceiling is adequately supported and can resist lateral forces. This is crucial in maintaining the ceiling's integrity, especially in seismic regions like California, where buildings must be equipped to handle potential earthquakes.

Suspended ceilings are designed to provide a lightweight and versatile option for hiding structural elements, managing acoustics, and improving aesthetics. By keeping the horizontal restraint points at a maximum spacing of 12 feet, the regulations help prevent sagging and ensure a more secure installation that can withstand external forces.

Other options present considerations related to aesthetic or functional properties of suspended ceilings, but they do not directly address the structural and safety requirements as effectively as the correct choice. For instance, while painted finishes can enhance appearance and acoustics can improve sound quality, these aspects do not inherently protect against structural failure.