Howard Leight SHF3099 SmartFit Heat-Activated Detectable Corded Metal Detectable Earplugs

The Howard Leight SmartFit Heat-Activated Detectable Corded has a Noise Reduction Rating of NRR 25 dB per ANSI S3.19. Under OSHA derating (subtract 7, divide by 2), the estimated real-world attenuation is approximately 9 dB. NIOSH recommends a 50% derating, yielding approximately 13 dB actual reduction. At NRR 25, these earplugs are appropriate for environments up to approximately 99 dBA TWA without additional hearing protection.

Metal detectable earplugs incorporate ferrous metal particles or barium sulfate compounds into the earplug material. These embedded elements are detected by standard in-line metal detectors (typically operating at 100–800 kHz) used in food processing facilities. Even small fragments of a torn plug generate a detectable signal. X-ray detection systems can also identify barium sulfate-loaded plugs. This dual detectability ensures that contamination is flagged before product reaches consumers, protecting both the public and your facility's certification status.

Check the product listing for specific usage classification. Disposable metal detectable earplugs (typically foam) are single-use or intended for limited reuse, and should be replaced when soiled or when the foam no longer returns to its original shape after rolling. Reusable models (typically silicone or triple-flange) can be cleaned with mild soap and water and reused for multiple shifts. Many food facilities prefer disposable plugs to minimize hygiene concerns from worn, soiled reusable plugs entering the production environment.

Metal detectable PPE is typically required under BRC Global Standard for Food Safety (Issue 9), SQF Code Edition 9, FSSC 22000, and IFS Food certification audits. HACCP programs also commonly specify detectable PPE in food-contact and open-product zones. The specific requirement depends on your facility's HACCP hazard analysis and which CCP (Critical Control Point) covers physical contamination. Your food safety auditor or SQF/BRC practitioner can confirm the detectable PPE specification required for your certification.

Yes. The Howard Leight SmartFit Heat-Activated Detectable Corded (NRR 25) meets ANSI S3.19 and is an accepted hearing protector under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95. Employers must verify that the selected protector's derated NRR reduces employee noise exposure to below 90 dBA (or 85 dBA for programs following the NIOSH action level). At NRR 25 with OSHA derating (approximately 9 dB effective reduction), these earplugs are appropriate for environments up to approximately 99 dBA TWA.

Blue is the standard color for metal detectable PPE in food processing because blue food coloring does not occur naturally in most foods or food ingredients — a blue fragment is visually conspicuous on a production line. Food safety standards and GMP guidelines often specify blue as the preferred color for detectable PPE (gloves, ear plugs, plasters) in food contact areas. The Howard Leight SmartFit Heat-Activated Detectable Corded is designed with this food-industry color convention in mind, providing both visual and electronic detectability.