In which type of exhaust systems are energy recovery ventilation systems prohibited from being installed?

Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems are designed to improve indoor air quality by exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering energy from the exhaust air. However, in hazardous exhaust systems, the introduction of fresh air could pose a significant risk due to the potential presence of flammable or toxic substances.

In hazardous environments, any equipment that could mix with potentially dangerous air, or introduce contaminants back into the building, is generally avoided to ensure safety. For example, applications like chemical processing facilities or laboratories can generate air with harmful vapors or particulates. Thus, to prevent any risk of combustion or exposure to toxic materials, energy recovery ventilation systems are not permitted in these contexts, making this the correct response.

Each of the other settings, such as garages, residential, and industrial environments, may utilize ERV systems under specific conditions where the risk factors associated with hazardous materials are not present, allowing for the safe recovery of energy.