Abstract: An industrial exhaust ventilation system enabling access to exhaust generating processes while containing and controlling the resultant exhausted gases is provided. A cover assembly is attached to the structure generating the exhaust gases and is provided with a reciprocating cover having an open and closed position. The exhaust generating process is accessible only when the cover is open. A conventional exhaust system is also provided to maintain the low level of air circulation necessary to convey the generated exhaust to a treatment facility. The ventilation system is optionally provided with a workload enclosure that travels to selected process structures and forms a fume containment region by interengaging with the cover assembly located thereon.