Product Review

More than 40 years ago this simple hearing protector, the world’s first foam ear plug, revolutionized hearing protection in the workplace and has remained to this day one of the most widely used earplugs in the world. The 3M E-A-R Classic Ear Plugs are constructed from slow-recovery, low-pressure foam. They fit snugly to create a noise barrier that helps protect hearing from loud sounds. These ear plugs are stiff enough when compressed to make fitting easy, yet soft enough to be comfortable in the ear for extended wear. Bright yellow color allows supervisors to conduct quick visual hearing protection compliance checks. Recommended applications include chipping, chiselling, drilling, furnace operations, grinding, heavy equipment operations, machining, pouring/casting, power fastening, riveting, sanding, sawing and welding. These earplugs are commonly used in the following industries: agriculture, automotive, chemicals, construction, general manufacturing, healthcare, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals. These ear plugs have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 33 dB, CSA Class AL. * Can be fit tested with the 3M E-A-Rfit Validation System. Moisture resistance helps maintain a consistent fit, even when humidity is present. Not only is noise present in our daily routines, but millions of Americans work in hazardous noise on a daily basis. Estimates from the National Institutes of Health suggest that approximately 15 percent of Americans (26 million people) between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency hearing loss due to exposure to noise at work or during leisure activities. Hearing loss due to noise is almost entirely preventable by consistent use of hearing protection. * Note: 3M strongly recommends fit testing of hearing protectors. Research suggests that many users will receive less noise reduction than indicated by the NRR due to variation in hearing protector fit, fitting skill, and motivation of the user. If the NRR is used, 3M recommends that it be reduced by 50% or in accordance with applicable regulations. Disclaimer: 3M industrial and occupational products are intended, labelled, and packaged for sale to trained industrial and occupational customers for workplace use.   Unless specifically stated otherwise on the applicable product packaging or literature, these products are not intended, labelled, or packaged for sale to or use by consumers (e. g. , for home, personal, primary or secondary school, recreational/sporting, or other uses not described in the applicable product packaging or literature), and must be selected and used in compliance with applicable health and safety regulations and standards (e. g. , U. S. OSHA, ANSI), as well as all product literature, user instructions, warnings, and limitations.   Misuse of 3M industrial and occupational products may result in injury, sickness, or death.   For help with product selection and use, consult your on-site safety professional, industrial hygienist, or other subject matter expert.