What is the required clearance to non-combustible material for hoods and exhaust systems?

The requirement for clearance to non-combustible materials for hoods and exhaust systems in commercial cooking operations is indeed that there is no minimum clearance required, which is why the answer is "0 inches." Non-combustible materials are materials that do not ignite, burn, or produce combustion products, making them safe to come into direct contact with the exhaust system without posing a fire hazard.

In practice, this means that when a hood or exhaust system is installed, it can be positioned closely to non-combustible surfaces without needing additional space to mitigate fire risks, as these materials do not contribute to the fire load in the event of an incident. This facilitates efficient design and installation of ventilation systems in commercial kitchens, allowing for more optimal use of space while maintaining safety standards as outlined by NFPA 96.

Understanding this requirement reinforces the importance of proper material selection and installation practices in reducing the risk of fire in commercial cooking settings.