What is the minimum clearance to combustible material for hoods and exhaust systems where enclosures are not required?

The minimum clearance to combustible materials for hoods and exhaust systems when enclosures are not required is 18 inches. This requirement is established to ensure that the heat and potential fire hazards generated by cooking operations do not ignite nearby combustible materials, which can lead to fires.

Maintaining an 18-inch clearance helps to mitigate the risk of any flames or heat affecting adjacent materials that could catch fire. This clearance is an important safety feature and is designed to protect both the cooking equipment and the overall structure. It reflects the NFPA 96 standard’s emphasis on safe and effective ventilation practices in commercial cooking environments to minimize fire hazards.