Supplied air respirators require a source of clean breathing air such as plant air systems, low pressure pumps, or bottled air. Complete systems include a supplied air hose, an air regulating valve, a breathing tube, and a helmet, hood, or other facepiece.

Potential benefits include:
A cost effective way to provide a high level of respiratory protection
3M’s range of supplied air valves can cool or heat air by up to 50°F (28°C)
No filters, cartridges, or batteries to maintain
Supplied air provides no additional breathing resistance to the wearer