In Essential Services Buildings all nonstructural components are assigned Importance Factor (Ip) (from 1.0 to 1.5). The importance factor is assigned based on the following criteria:
• if component is required to function after DBE  (like sprinkler system)
• if component contains hazardous materials
• to storage rack in buildings occupied by public
• component is attached or inside Category IV Occupancy as defined by Table 1604.05 of the CBC.

If Ip is 1.5, it is called Designated Seismic System

Some components anchoring and bracing may be required to be certified by various methods including shake table, 3D shock test or analytical method using dynamic characteristics from Chapter 16 CBC. The requirements for testing are based on Seismic Categories (A, B, C, D, E & F). The certificate of compliance with forces requirements shall be submitted by manufacturer to regulatory agency when required by contract documents or by regulatory agency. A regulatory agency Inspector shall verify the mounting of the component per certificate in the field.

DBE - Design-Basis Event\Earthquake

SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY. A classification assigned to a structure based on its occupancy category and the severity of the design earthquake ground motion at the site. See 1613A.5.6 CBC.

References:

"US Building Code Seismic Testing Requirements for Nonstructural Components" - presentation by HBSB (OSHPD committee), July 2009

2007 CBC