A fan is not an appliance so to speak. It is more of a luminare. And no you do not have to see the switch from where the fan is located. The section you are quoting is about kitchen appliances - stove, oven, dishwasher, that are fastened in place.
Applies to anything with a 1/8 hp or large motor. Having an old house I understand the issues of address current code, but at least you will have the knowledge. Good luck.