Which type of system is NCMC 514.2 specifically cautioning against energy recovery ventilation installation?

The North Carolina Mechanical Code (NCMC) section 514.2 specifically cautions against the installation of energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems in hazardous exhaust systems due to safety concerns. Hazardous exhaust systems typically deal with fumes, vapors, or particulate matter that could pose health risks or explosive hazards. The primary purpose of ERV systems is to exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while minimizing energy loss. However, in the context of hazardous exhaust applications, introducing outside air could inadvertently allow dangerous contaminants to circulate within the building, which can be disastrous for occupant safety and health.

In contrast, the other system types—such as A/C systems, dust collection systems, and recirculating systems—do not inherently pose the same kinds of risks as hazardous exhaust systems when it comes to energy recovery ventilation. While care needs to be taken with all ventilation systems, the unique dangers associated with hazardous exhaust necessitate a stricter approach to ensure safety, making the caution against ERV systems particularly relevant in this context.