What is a disadvantage of supplied air respirators?

The correct answer highlights a specific operational risk associated with supplied air respirators. These respirators deliver breathable air through a hose from a clean air source, which is essential in environments where air quality is compromised, such as in asbestos work. However, the physical connection through the hose introduces the risk of it being cut or damaged. If this happens, it can create a dangerous situation where the wearer is suddenly without a proper air supply, which can lead to suffocation or exposure to harmful airborne particles.

While issues related to comfort, cost, and mobility are valid considerations when evaluating the use of supplied air respirators, they do not represent the immediate safety risks that come from a compromised air supply. The primary concern in high-risk environments is to ensure that the respiratory protection is consistently reliable and that wearers can maintain a safe breathing atmosphere at all times. Thus, the potential for the hose to be cut directly affects not just practicality, but the overall safety of the user, making it a significant disadvantage in the use of these devices.