Make-up air for machine rooms shall be provided through openings located to avoid intake of _____.

When dealing with make-up air for machine rooms, it's essential to ensure that the air brought into these areas is clean and suitable for maintaining optimal operating conditions. The correct answer highlights that openings for make-up air should be strategically placed to avoid intake of exhaust air. Exhaust air typically contains contaminants and pollutants generated by the machinery or equipment in the room, which can significantly degrade indoor air quality and potentially harm the equipment's performance.

By preventing the intake of exhaust air, the system ensures that fresh, unpolluted air enters the machine room, promoting a safer and more efficient environment. Fresh air is already a suitable option for intake; however, the focus in this context is ensuring that the air introduced does not compromise the integrity of the operation and safety of the machine room, which can occur if exhaust air is drawn in. Thus, the correct approach prioritizes the quality of air entering the space.