Screen openings on an intake opening for a commercial building shall not be greater than ___ inch.

The requirement for screen openings on an intake opening for a commercial building is specified to ensure that the intake is protected from larger debris and organisms that could disrupt the mechanical system's operation. A maximum screen opening of 1 inch is considered appropriate for facilitating airflow while still providing adequate filtration against larger contaminants.

Screen openings larger than 1 inch could allow unwanted materials to enter the intake system, potentially causing blockages, reducing efficiency, or harming equipment. This standard is specifically designed to balance airflow needs with the necessity of protecting the system from undesirable ingress, making the 1-inch size a commonly accepted guideline in mechanical code practices.

This consideration reflects the importance of maintaining system integrity in commercial settings, where optimal performance is paramount. Therefore, the correct answer aligns well with industry standards and best practices for maintaining mechanical systems in commercial buildings.