Moldex 6622 Goin Green Corded Earplugs NRR 33 100 Pairs Review (2026)
NRR 33 Green Foam Earplugs With a Cord That Won't Get Left Behind โ Is the Moldex 6622 Worth It?
Moldex 6622 Goin Green Corded Earplugs NRR 33 100 Pairs Review (2026)
Disposable foam earplugs are the most widely used hearing-protection device in American industrial workplaces, but most workers in high-decibel environments lose track of them within minutes of removing them at a break. The Moldex 6622 Goin Green Corded Earplugs solve that problem by attaching both plugs with a lightweight cord โ keeping the pair together when worn around the neck between uses โ while delivering a top-tier NRR 33 attenuation rating that meets the most demanding noise exposure levels under OSHA's noise regulations and workplace hearing conservation requirements.
The Moldex 6622 is built from the same Goin' Green formula as the uncorded 6620: PVC-free, latex-free, chloroprene-free, and diisocyanate-free polyurethane foam in a bright, high-visibility green color that makes compliance monitoring fast during safety walk-throughs. The 100-pair bulk bag targets industrial facilities running formal hearing conservation programs as well as contractors and tradespeople who burn through earplugs at a high rate. Below is a detailed look at the specs, the attenuation math, the competitors, and who should โ and should not โ pick this SKU.
All specs in this review are drawn from the WC Safety product page, from ANSI S3.19-1974 standard documentation, and from OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 field-attenuation guidance. No performance claims are fabricated or extrapolated beyond those sources. For additional context on earplug selection, see our best earplugs for work and best foam earplugs guides.
Bottom line: The Moldex 6622 delivers the maximum NRR available on the market (NRR 33) in a corded format that dramatically reduces plug loss on busy job sites. The Goin' Green material formula is among the safest available โ PVC, latex, chloroprene, and diisocyanate free โ and the lime-green color keeps compliance visible at a glance. For high-noise facilities buying 100-pair bags, this is a near-perfect bulk earplug choice.
Pros
- Maximum NRR 33 attenuation
- Corded design prevents loss between uses
- PVC-free, latex-free, chloroprene-free, diisocyanate-free foam
- High-visibility lime green for compliance monitoring
- 100-pair bulk bag โ competitive cost per pair
- ANSI S3.19-1974 certified attenuation data
Cons
- Cord can snag on equipment in tight spaces
- Single size โ no sizing variants like some banded styles
- Roll-down insertion takes more time than banded alternatives
- Disposable only โ not reusable
- Cord adds slight bulk when plugs hang around the neck
Who the Moldex 6622 Is For
The 6622 is best suited for industrial workers in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, oil and gas, or any environment where time-weighted average (TWA) noise levels regularly exceed 100 dBA โ situations where maximum NRR is not optional but required by OSHA. The corded design specifically targets workers who repeatedly insert and remove plugs throughout a shift: taking them out at a work cell during a quiet conversation, hanging them around the neck, and then reinserting at the next noisy station. Without a cord, those plugs hit the floor. With the cord, they stay accessible and need replacement far less often, lowering per-shift PPE cost.
Safety managers running OSHA-compliant hearing conservation programs (HCP) will appreciate the high-visibility green for walk-through audits and the sealed 100-pair bags that support controlled issuance logs. Browse the full ear plugs collection for additional options across NRR levels and form factors. The 6622 is not ideal for a worker in a tight crawl space where the cord becomes a snag hazard, or for someone who needs a custom-molded fit for certified APF calculations on extreme exposures above 103 dBA.
Strengths of the Moldex 6622
NRR 33 โ Maximum Available Attenuation
NRR 33 is the highest Noise Reduction Rating currently achievable under the ANSI S3.19-1974 laboratory test protocol, which Moldex used to certify this plug. When applying OSHA's mandatory 50% derating โ required under 29 CFR 1910.95 for field calculations โ the effective real-world attenuation is approximately 13 dB. That means the 6622 provides adequate protection in environments up to roughly 103 dBA TWA as a sole protection device (90 dBA OSHA PEL plus 13 dB field attenuation). For facilities running noise hazard assessments, this earplug covers the widest range of exposure levels of any single-use foam SKU. See our full NRR guide for workers for the complete derating math and how to apply it in your HCP documentation.
Corded Format Reduces Loss and Increases Consistent Wear
Industry hearing-loss data consistently shows that correct and consistent wear โ not just availability โ is the biggest gap in earplug programs. A corded design closes part of that gap by eliminating the inconvenience of finding a loose plug after a break. Workers who reach for their plugs and find them dangling at chest level are far more likely to reinsert correctly than those who have to dig through a pocket or retrieve a dropped plug from the floor. The 6622's cord is lightweight enough to avoid significant neck fatigue but long enough to comfortably drape without pulling on the foam tips during insertion.
Clean Material Formula
The Goin' Green foam excludes four categories of materials that have generated occupational health concern in foam earplug manufacturing: PVC (polyvinyl chloride, linked to chlorine off-gassing), latex (a sensitizer for workers with latex allergy), chloroprene, and diisocyanates (precursors in some PU foam reactions). For facilities with MCS-sensitive workers, latex allergy policies, or chemical-exposure tracking requirements, the 6622's clean bill of materials removes a compliance variable. This information is confirmed on the WC Safety product page and in Moldex's published SDS documentation.
High-Visibility Green Color
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 requires employers to provide hearing protection and ensure it is worn in posted hearing-protection zones. Visual confirmation during walk-throughs is the most practical enforcement tool supervisors have without stopping work. The lime-green color of the 6622 stands out against most workwear and skin tones at conversational distance, making non-compliance easy to spot. This is not a minor aesthetic detail โ it is a genuine administrative control benefit that separates high-vis earplugs from beige or skin-colored alternatives. Our best hearing protection guide covers the full range of high-vis earplug options across brands.
Bulk 100-Pair Bag Economics
At 100 pairs per bag, the per-pair cost makes the 6622 feasible for daily or per-shift distribution programs where workers receive fresh plugs at the start of every shift rather than carrying the same pair for weeks. Fresh-per-shift distribution is recommended in hearing conservation best practices because soiled foam degrades both attenuation and hygiene. The 100-pair bag also simplifies inventory management compared to smaller packs. For facilities needing even higher volume, the PlugStation dispenser formats (6646 and 6647) build on the same Goin' Green foam at 250 and 500-pair scale respectively. See our best Moldex earplugs guide for a full comparison of Moldex SKUs across the earplug lineup.
Weaknesses and Limitations
Cord Compatibility With Tight Workspaces
In confined-space entry, below-grade excavation, or machinery maintenance where workers regularly pass through narrow openings and around rotating equipment, a cord hanging from the ears introduces a snag risk. For those applications, the uncorded Moldex 6620 or a banded earplug that stores at the neck in a rigid frame rather than a flexible cord is a safer fit. Assess cord compatibility against your specific jobsite geometry before specifying the 6622 site-wide. The hearing protection collection includes banded and canal-cap alternatives for confined-space environments.
One-Size Roll-Down Insertion
Like all roll-down foam earplugs, the 6622 requires the user to correctly compress the plug, reach over the head to straighten the ear canal, insert, and hold 20โ30 seconds while the foam expands. Workers with smaller or larger ear canals may achieve inconsistent attenuation. The ANSI S3.19 laboratory NRR is measured under ideal fitting conditions by trained technicians; real-world field attenuation varies significantly with fit quality. A fit-check program or periodic real-ear attenuation testing (REAT) is strongly recommended to verify that workers are achieving adequate protection, particularly in high-risk exposure zones above 100 dBA. Our best earplugs for work guide covers fit-check protocols.
Disposable โ Not Reusable
The 6622 is a single-use earplug. Unlike Moldex's reusable triple-flange or ComfortSoft flanged designs, the foam degrades in hygiene and attenuation after a shift of use. Workers who prefer a reusable option โ for cost-per-use economics or personal preference โ should look at Moldex's reusable product line or consult our reusable vs. disposable earplugs guide. For facilities tracking per-worker PPE cost over a full year, the disposable-versus-reusable TCO math is worth running before committing to a bulk foam program.
No Sizing Options
The 6622 comes in one size. Workers with documented small ear canal measurements who have failed real-ear attenuation testing with standard-size foam plugs may not achieve NRR 33 in practice. This is a category limitation of roll-down foam earplugs broadly, not unique to Moldex. The best foam earplugs guide covers small-format alternatives for workers who need a size-down option.
Competitor Comparison
| Model | NRR | Cord | Material Notes | Pack Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moldex 6622 Goin Green | 33 | Yes | PU foam; PVC/latex/chloroprene/diisocyanate-free | 100 pr | Amazon |
| 3M 1110 Corded Foam | 29 | Yes | PU foam | 100 pr | Amazon |
| Howard Leight MAX-1 Corded | 33 | Yes | PU foam | 100 pr | Amazon |
| Moldex 6620 Goin Green (Uncorded) | 33 | No | PU foam; PVC/latex/chloroprene/diisocyanate-free | 200 pr | WC Safety |
| Moldex 6800 Pura-Fit Corded | 33 | Yes | PU foam; PVC/latex/chloroprene-free | 100 pr | WC Safety |
NRR values are manufacturer-published under ANSI S3.19-1974. Apply OSHA 50% derating for all field calculations. Amazon prices vary by date.
Moldex Goin Green Series โ Which SKU Is Right for You?
The Goin' Green family shares the same PU foam formula across all SKUs. The choice comes down to cord preference, pack size, and dispensing format.
- Moldex 6620 (Uncorded, 200 pairs) โ same foam, no cord, double the pairs per bag; best for high-volume open-dispenser programs or workers who find cords uncomfortable. View on WC Safety.
- Moldex 6622 (Corded, 100 pairs) โ this review โ cord keeps plugs together between uses; ideal for mobile workers moving between quiet and noisy zones throughout a shift
- Moldex 6646 (PlugStation Dispenser, 250 pairs) โ single-plug dispensing format for wall-mounted station programs
- Moldex 6647 (PlugStation Dispenser, 500 pairs) โ highest-volume dispenser format for large facilities and high-traffic distribution points
Decision rule:
- Worker moves between quiet and noisy zones repeatedly per shift โ 6622 (corded)
- Continuous high-noise environment, plugs worn all shift โ 6620 (uncorded, lower cost per pair)
- Wall-mounted station distribution for a facility โ 6646 or 6647 PlugStation
Compatible Accessories
For facilities managing earplug dispensing at scale, pair the 6622 bags with:
- Moldex PlugStation dispensers โ wall-mounted units sized for individual-plug or corded-pair dispensing; reduces waste and supports issuance documentation
- Hearing protection signage โ required under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95(c) to demarcate areas where protection is mandatory; see our full PPE collection for compliance signage options
- Audiometric testing records management โ OSHA requires baseline and annual audiograms for all workers covered under an HCP; consult our hearing conservation program guide for the full OSHA recordkeeping checklist
OSHA and ANSI Standards Context
The Moldex 6622 is tested and rated under ANSI S3.19-1974, the laboratory method for measuring real-ear attenuation at threshold (REAT). This is the standard method OSHA recognizes for NRR calculations under 29 CFR 1910.95 Appendix B. The NRR 33 figure on the package is a laboratory result; OSHA instructs employers to use 50% of the labeled NRR minus 7 for TWA field calculations, yielding approximately 13 dB effective attenuation for the 6622. For a work environment at 105 dBA TWA, that means the worker's dose is reduced to approximately 92 dBA โ still above the 90 dBA PEL, so engineering controls or double protection would be required at that level.
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95(i) requires employers to provide hearing protection to workers exposed at or above the 85 dBA action level (8-hr TWA). The 6622's effective field attenuation covers most exposures between 85 and 103 dBA as a primary device. Our NRR hearing protection guide walks through the full derating formulas with worked examples for common industrial exposure scenarios. For workers enrolled in a formal hearing conservation program, our hearing conservation program guide covers documentation requirements, audiometric testing schedules, and training obligations under 29 CFR 1910.95.
Total Cost of Ownership
The bulk 100-pair bag makes per-pair pricing competitive for daily-issue programs. Key TCO considerations for facilities evaluating the 6622:
- Daily-issue vs. weekly-issue programs: Daily-fresh issuance multiplies annual plug consumption but improves hygiene and average attenuation โ soiled or compressed plugs underperform relative to the labeled NRR. The 100-pair bag and corded design both support daily issue because fewer pairs are lost per day than with uncorded plugs.
- Cord effect on loss rate: A corded plug that hangs at the neck when removed is not floor-bound. Facilities switching from uncorded to corded SKUs typically report lower pair-per-worker-per-shift consumption, partially offsetting the higher per-pair cost of corded formats.
- Hearing loss liability: OSHA noise-induced hearing loss citations and workers' compensation claims for NIHL carry far higher costs than any earplug program. Correct, consistent use of an NRR 33 earplug is the most cost-effective single point-of-use intervention available within a hearing conservation program framework.
- Reusable comparison: Multi-use flanged earplugs have a lower per-use cost but require a cleaning program and individual-fit tracking. See our reusable vs. disposable earplugs guide for the full TCO comparison before committing to a program format.
Final Verdict
The Moldex 6622 Goin Green Corded Earplugs NRR 33 100 Pairs is the strongest all-around bulk disposable corded earplug available for industrial hearing conservation programs. It achieves the maximum NRR 33 attenuation under ANSI S3.19-1974, uses a clean PU foam formula free of PVC, latex, chloroprene, and diisocyanates, and addresses the single biggest compliance gap in earplug programs โ plug loss between uses โ through a lightweight cord. The high-visibility lime-green color is a practical compliance monitoring tool. The 100-pair bag keeps cost per pair competitive for daily-issue programs.
The 6622's limitations are inherent to the disposable corded foam category: it is not reusable, it is one size, and the cord is inappropriate in certain confined or congested workspaces. For workers and facilities where those limitations do not apply, this earplug is a top-tier choice at a fair bulk price. We rate it 4.7/5. For additional Moldex earplug options across NRR levels and plug types, see our best Moldex earplugs guide and the full hearing protection collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NRR of the Moldex 6622?
The Moldex 6622 has an NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) of 33 dB, measured under ANSI S3.19-1974 laboratory conditions. This is the maximum NRR available on the market for single-use foam earplugs.
How do I calculate real-world protection from NRR 33?
Under OSHA's required 50% derating formula: effective attenuation = (NRR โ 7) รท 2 = (33 โ 7) รท 2 = 13 dB. Subtract 13 dB from your measured TWA to estimate the dose at the ear. A 100 dBA environment becomes approximately 87 dBA at the ear โ below OSHA's 90 dBA PEL. See our NRR guide for full worked examples.
Are the Moldex 6622 earplugs latex-free?
Yes. The Goin' Green foam is latex-free, PVC-free, chloroprene-free, and diisocyanate-free. It is safe for workers with latex allergies or facilities with chemical-exclusion policies for those materials.
What is the difference between the Moldex 6620 and 6622?
The 6620 is the uncorded version of the same Goin' Green foam, sold in a 200-pair bag. The 6622 is corded and sold in 100 pairs. The attenuation (NRR 33) and foam formula are identical. The cord on the 6622 keeps the pair together when removed between noisy tasks.
How many pairs are in a Moldex 6622 bag?
Each bag contains 100 pairs (200 individual earplug tips, connected in corded pairs).
Can the Moldex 6622 be reused?
No. The 6622 is a disposable, single-use earplug. The polyurethane foam degrades in hygiene and fit quality after a shift of use. Moldex offers reusable earplug designs in other product lines for workers who need a multi-use option.
Why does the Moldex 6622 have a cord?
The cord keeps both plugs together when removed between tasks, preventing loss and encouraging workers to reinsert correctly rather than discard after a short quiet period. Corded earplugs are preferred in mobile-worker roles where plugs are frequently inserted and removed throughout a shift.
What noise level does NRR 33 protect against?
Using OSHA's 50% derating, NRR 33 provides approximately 13 dB of effective field attenuation. As a sole hearing protection device this covers environments up to approximately 103 dBA TWA (90 dBA PEL + 13 dB). Above 103 dBA, additional engineering controls or double protection is required under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95.
Is ANSI S3.19 the same standard OSHA uses for NRR?
Yes. ANSI S3.19-1974 is the laboratory test protocol referenced in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 Appendix B for NRR calculations. The 6622's NRR 33 rating under this standard is fully recognized for OSHA compliance documentation.
Does OSHA require earplugs in all noisy workplaces?
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 requires employers to provide hearing protection when workers are exposed at or above the 85 dBA 8-hour TWA action level and feasible engineering controls cannot reduce exposure to or below the 90 dBA PEL. Earplugs like the 6622 are a recognized PPE control measure. See our hearing conservation program guide for the full compliance checklist.
How do I correctly insert the Moldex 6622?
Roll the foam tip between clean fingers until it is thin and smooth. Reach over the top of your head with the opposite hand to gently pull the ear upward and back, straightening the ear canal. Insert the compressed plug while it is still compressed and hold it in place for 20โ30 seconds until the foam fully expands to fill the canal. A correct fit should feel snug but not painful, and background noise should noticeably reduce immediately on expansion.
What color are the Moldex 6622 earplugs?
The 6622 is bright lime green โ the same high-visibility "Goin' Green" color used across the entire Moldex 66xx series. The green color is specifically selected to make worn earplugs visible to supervisors during compliance walk-throughs in PPE-required zones.
Are there PlugStation dispenser versions of the 6622 foam formula?
Yes. Moldex 6646 (250-pair PlugStation) and 6647 (500-pair PlugStation) use the same Goin' Green PU foam in a wall-mounted dispenser format. The dispenser versions support individual-plug dispensing for facility-wide station programs at higher volume.
How does the Moldex 6622 compare to Howard Leight MAX-1 Corded?
Both have NRR 33 in a corded disposable foam format and are tested under ANSI S3.19-1974. Key differences: the Moldex Goin' Green formula excludes PVC, latex, chloroprene, and diisocyanates, while Howard Leight MAX-1 does not publish equivalent exclusions. Color also differs (Moldex lime green vs. Howard Leight's orange-yellow). Attenuation is equivalent under the same test standard.
Where can I buy the Moldex 6622 in bulk?
The 100-pair bag is available from WC Safety and on Amazon. For large multi-bag facility orders, contact the WC Safety team for volume pricing through our PPE procurement page.
What Moldex earplugs have the highest NRR?
Several Moldex models share the maximum NRR 33 rating, including the 6620/6622 Goin' Green family and the 6800 Pura-Fit series. See our best Moldex earplugs guide for a full rated comparison across the Moldex earplug lineup and NRR levels.
What is a hearing conservation program and do I need one?
A hearing conservation program (HCP) is an OSHA-required written program for any employer whose workers are exposed at or above 85 dBA TWA. It includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing, hearing protector provision, training, and recordkeeping. The 6622 qualifies as the hearing protector component. Read our hearing conservation program guide for the full OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 requirements checklist.
Why Trust This Review
WC Safety is an industrial PPE retailer with over a decade of experience supplying hearing protection, respiratory protection, and personal protective equipment to manufacturing, construction, and government clients across North America. Our product reviews are written by in-house PPE specialists, cross-referenced against OSHA regulations and ANSI standards, and updated when product specs or regulatory guidance changes. We do not accept payment for editorial ratings. All performance claims in this review are drawn directly from the published product page and from ANSI S3.19-1974 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95. No claims are fabricated or extrapolated beyond those verified sources.
For additional vetted earplug comparisons, see our best earplugs for work guide, best hearing protection guide, and the full hearing protection collection.
Reviewed by Steven Eaton โ PPE Specialist, WC Safety Editorial Team | OSHA 10-Hour Construction & General Industry | Published June 2026
Review Methodology
This review is based on published product specifications from the WC Safety product listing, Moldex published technical documentation, ANSI S3.19-1974 standard methodology, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 regulatory text. All attenuation calculations use OSHA's 50% derating formula as mandated for employer field calculations. No performance claims are made beyond data published by Moldex or derivable from these regulatory standards. Customer rating data (4.8/5, 359 reviews) is sourced from Amazon verified purchaser reviews as of the publication date and is reported for reader context only; WC Safety does not independently verify Amazon review authenticity.