What is the main function of a source capture system?

The primary function of a source capture system is to capture air contaminants at their source. This system is designed to remove pollutants before they can disperse into the broader environment of a building, thus reducing the exposure risk to occupants and improving overall air quality. Source capture systems are particularly effective in environments where hazardous materials are used, such as laboratories, workshops, and manufacturing facilities, as they can help mitigate the release of fumes, dust, and other airborne pollutants at the point of generation.

In contrast, simply exhausting waste air or circulating clean air does not address the immediate hazards associated with the contaminants produced in specific processes. While recycling airborne contaminants may contribute to reducing waste, it does not eliminate the pollutants at their origin, which is the primary focus and advantage of source capture systems.