Moldex MX-6 Over-The-Head Earmuffs, Black/Green, Large (6130)

Moldex MX-6 Over-The-Head Earmuffs — Review

The Moldex MX-6 (catalog 6130) is the higher-attenuation step in Moldex's MX-series industrial overhead earmuff line. Where the MX-5 covers moderate manufacturing and assembly environments, the MX-6 is specified for environments with higher sustained noise exposures — stamping operations, chipping and grinding, heavy equipment, and other industrial applications where the lower MX-5 attenuation is insufficient to bring worker exposure within OSHA permissible limits using the derating formula.

The larger cup volume of the MX-6 houses additional sound-absorbing material, increasing attenuation while maintaining the same adjustable headband platform as the rest of the MX-series. Workers transitioning from the MX-5 to the MX-6 use the same fit and adjustment procedure, simplifying training in facilities where both models are deployed.

When to Specify MX-6 Over MX-5

ANSI S3.19 Compliance and Derating

The MX-6 is ANSI S3.19 certified. Apply OSHA's 50% derating formula when determining effective protection: real-world attenuation = (NRR − 7) ÷ 2. Verify the derated NRR against your measured TWA to confirm the MX-6 alone — or MX-6 with earplugs for the highest-noise environments — brings worker exposure to within the 90 dB PEL (or 85 dB Action Level) for your program.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths: higher attenuation than MX-5 for noisier environments; ANSI S3.19 certified; same headband platform as MX-series — familiar fit for workers already using MX-5; Moldex soft-foam cushion design for extended-shift comfort; no batteries required; cushion replacement extends total product life.

Limitations: larger cup increases bulk compared to MX-5 — slightly heavier for full-shift wear; passive design blocks all sound including speech and alarms; not hi-vis; for environments above 100 dB TWA, double protection with earplugs may still be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the MX-5 and MX-6?

The MX-6 provides higher attenuation than the MX-5 through a larger cup volume with additional sound-absorbing material. Both use the same Moldex MX-series headband and cushion platform. Specify the MX-6 when the MX-5 derated NRR is insufficient to bring your measured TWA within OSHA permissible limits, or when your noise assessment indicates exposures above approximately 95–98 dB TWA.

Can I use MX-6 earmuffs with earplugs for double protection?

Yes. Double protection — foam earplugs worn under the MX-6 — is appropriate for very high-noise environments above 100 dB TWA where a single protector is insufficient. The combined attenuation is not simply additive: OSHA uses a standard formula. Consult your industrial hygienist to determine the correct combined NRR for your specific exposure levels.

What does the 6130 catalog number mean?

6130 is the Moldex catalog number for the MX-6 earmuff. Moldex uses a numeric catalog system — the 6000-series covers the MX earmuff family. When ordering through a safety supply distributor, 6130 is the item number to reference. The MX-6 product name and 6130 catalog number refer to the same product.

Related: All Hearing Protection  |  All Ear Muffs  |  Ear Plugs  |  NRR Guide