The Electrical Safety Code adopted under Ontario Regulation 164/99 (Electrical Safety Code), and Ontario Natural Gas Code address clearances directly above, in front of, behind and beside ranges. Where side clearances are zero, the standards do not address clearances to building elements located both above the level of the range elements or burners and to the side of the appliance. Through reference to the Electrical Safety Code adopted under Ontario Regulation 164/99 (Electrical Safety Code) and the requirements in Articles 9.10.22.2. and 9.10.22.3., the Building Code addresses all clearances. Where clearances are addressed by the Building Code and the Electrical Safety Code adopted under Ontario Regulation 164/99 (Electrical Safety Code) or Ontario Natural Gas Code, conformance with all relevant criteria is achieved by compliance with the most stringent criteria. The minimum vertical clearances stated in Article 9.10.22.2. apply only to combustible framing, finishes and cabinets.
They do not apply to microwave ovens installed over cooktops nor to range hoods. Microwave ovens must comply with CAN/CSA-C22.2 NO. 150, “Microwave Ovens”, which is referenced in the Electrical Safety Code adopted under Ontario Regulation 164/99 (Electrical Safety Code). This standard includes tests to confirm that the appliance will not present a hazard when installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
