Which type of hazard can ventilation systems help mitigate?

Ventilation systems are designed primarily to improve air quality in indoor environments by controlling airborne contaminants. These systems help reduce the concentration of pollutants, dust, fumes, and other harmful substances that can be inhaled into the lungs, thereby addressing airborne hazards directly. By ensuring a supply of fresh air and effective circulation, they play a critical role in creating a healthier work environment.

Airborne hazards can include a variety of issues such as dust, smoke, chemicals, and other particulates that can pose risks to health when inhaled. Effective ventilation decreases the exposure workers have to these airborne contaminants, minimizing the risk of respiratory issues and other health effects that might arise from prolonged exposure to polluted air.

In contrast, psychosocial hazards relate to the social and environmental factors that can lead to stress or mental health issues, and these are not mitigated by ventilation. Biological hazards involve living organisms such as bacteria or viruses, which also require different types of controls than what ventilation provides. Ergonomic hazards concern the design of work tasks and environments that can lead to physical strain or injuries, which likewise falls outside the scope of what ventilation systems address.