The 3Mโข Peltorโข Optimeโข 105 Over-the-Head Earmuff has been developed for effective hearing protection in the most demanding noise environments where noise exposures are expected to reach as high as 105 dBA. The Optimeโข 105 over-the-head earmuff features added mass and volume, plus a unique โdouble-shellโ earcup design (two cups connected via foam inner layer) to boost the noise reduction throughout the full range of low and high frequencies. The durable stainless steel headband resists bending and warping and distributes weight for a low-pressure fit. The lightweight headband works in conjunction with earcup pivot points that tilt to maximize wearer comfort. Soft, liquid & foam-filled cushions help the earmuffs comfortably against the head to help provide an effective noise-blocking seal. The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) may overestimate the hearing protection provided during typical use. 3M recommends reducing the NRR by 50% for estimating the amount of noise reduction provided. The 3Mโข Peltorโข Optimeโข number (105) is a 3M guideline for the maximum time-weighted average A-weighted exposures in which the product, when properly worn and in good condition, can provide adequate protection to meet OSHA hearing conservation guidelines.
However, the user must make sure that the specific earmuff and style selected provides appropriate protection. To be effective, the hearing protector should be used within a hearing conservation program that also includes noise level assessments by qualified personnel, training, audiometric testing, and engineering controls. 3Mโข Optimeโข recommendations are based upon testing per Method B of the most recent ANSI standard, S12.6-1997 (R2002). Method B provides data that approximate the upper limits to attenuation that can be expected for groups of occupational users. Properly trained and motivated individuals can potentially obtain greater protection.
