Certified Safety Professional Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The purpose of a fan in a local exhaust system is primarily to draw contaminants away from the worker's breathing zone. Local exhaust ventilation systems are designed to capture and remove harmful substances (such as fumes, dust, vapors, or mists) generated from industrial processes or activities at the source before they can disperse into the workplace air. The fan creates an airflow that effectively pulls these contaminants away from the worker’s area, minimizing inhalation exposure and maintaining a safer working environment.

By positioning the fan correctly and ensuring adequate airflow, the system can effectively protect workers by controlling airborne pollutants at the source rather than allowing them to accumulate in the general work area, thereby enhancing overall occupational safety and health.