Portwest PU Foam Ear Plug (200 Pairs) Reusable Protection Work Safety Sound Noise ANSI S3.19

The Portwest EP02 PU Foam carries a Noise Reduction Rating of NRR 32 dB per ANSI S3.19. Under the OSHA derating methodology (subtract 7, divide by 2), the estimated real-world attenuation is approximately 13 dB. NIOSH recommends a 50% derating, yielding an estimated 16 dB actual reduction in most workplace environments.

OSHA does not "approve" individual earplug models — it requires that hearing protectors meet ANSI S3.19 standards and be adequate to reduce employee noise exposure to permissible levels per 29 CFR 1910.95. The Portwest EP02 PU Foam (NRR 32) meets ANSI S3.19 and is an accepted hearing protector under the OSHA hearing conservation program.

The Portwest EP02 PU Foam is designed for multiple uses. Replace when the plug becomes visibly soiled, cracked, hardened, or no longer returns to its original shape after use. Most reusable flanged plugs last weeks to months depending on use frequency and cleaning. Wash with mild soap and water; allow to air dry completely before storage.

NRR ratings are lab-measured under ideal fit conditions. A 3 dB difference in NRR represents approximately a halving or doubling of noise energy in lab terms, but real-world performance differences narrow significantly once fit variability is introduced. An NRR 32 plug fitted correctly outperforms an NRR 33 plug worn loosely. For the loudest environments (above 105 dBA), consider double protection: earplugs plus earmuffs. See our ear muffs collection for compatible options.

The cord keeps both earplugs connected when they are removed from the ear, allowing them to hang around the neck or be tucked into a shirt collar. This prevents loss, contamination from dropped plugs touching dirty surfaces, and makes compliance audits easier since supervisors can visually confirm plugs are present on the worker at all times. Some corded models (including certain metal-detectable variants) also satisfy food processing and pharmaceutical protocols requiring all PPE to be detectable in product streams.

Corded earplugs like the Portwest EP02 PU Foam (NRR 32) provide similar or greater attenuation than most passive earmuffs at a fraction of the cost and bulk. Earmuffs are preferred when workers remove and replace hearing protection frequently, or when ear canal irritation makes foam plugs unsuitable. For maximum protection in extreme-noise environments, combine corded earplugs with earmuffs (dual protection); combined NRR is approximately NRR of the higher-rated device + 5 dB.