For what reason would an inspector fail the inspection of an exhaust system?

An inspector would fail the inspection of an exhaust system primarily due to the presence of major leaks. Major leaks can indicate significant deterioration or failure of the exhaust system, which can lead to a range of hazardous issues, including the potential for carbon monoxide exposure or an ineffective exhaust that fails to direct fumes safely away from occupied spaces.

Proper exhaust systems are crucial for maintaining air quality and safety within a commercial property. When assessing an exhaust system, inspectors look for signs of failure that could pose serious health risks or indicate that the system may not function as intended.

In contrast, while the presence of rust and minor leaks could signal maintenance issues, they are typically not as immediately concerning as major leaks, which compromise the integrity of the exhaust system far more significantly. Therefore, an inspector would prioritize addressing major leaks to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the system.