Clearance requirements and glass splashbacks
A growing number of domestic gas cooking appliances installed in residential homes are failing to comply with clearance requirements and thermal protection in relation to combustible surfaces.
The specified clearance, measured from the periphery of the nearest burner to any vertical combustible surface, should be at least 200mm, as outlined in AS/NZS 5601.1:2013. However, where the distance is less than 200mm, that surface is required to be protected (in accordance with Clause 6.10.1.2) to a height of no less than 150mm above the periphery of the nearest burner for the full dimension (width or depth) of the cooking surface area (refer to label C in the image below).
Toughened safety glass and a suitable fire-resistant material are often used to protect a combustible surface. However, many plumbers don’t realise further certification of the toughened safety glass is required, and that it must be installed on appropriate fire-resistant backing material. Toughened safety glass used as a splashback must comply with AS/NZS 2208 and needs to be marked accordingly to indicate it is fit for purpose. Alternatively, a certificate from the manufacturer must be supplied to demonstrate that the safety glass is compliant and fit for purpose.
All appropriate information must be supplied as part of a VBA risk-based audit for these installations, including identification of the fire-resistant material.
Figure 1: Required clearances around domestic gas cooking appliances. Source: AS/NZS 5601.1:2013, page 124.
© Standards Australia Limited/Standards New Zealand. Image modified by the VBA.