Caboflex Hearing Protector Band With Silicone Pods | NRR 20 dB
3M E-A-R Caboflex Model 600 banded hearing protectors offer a reusable option for workers moving between quiet and noisy areas. Model 320-2001 features swiveling, conical silicone tips with foam cores and a flexible band. ASA sells this product individually: one banded protector with two ear tips.
The Noise Reduction Rating depends on wearing position: NRR 20 dB under the chin or NRR 17 dB behind the head. The tips must seal correctly in either position. Resting the band around the neck is for storage between uses and provides no hearing protection.
3M E-A-R Caboflex 600
320-2001
S320-2001
One banded protector
NRR 20 dB
NRR 17 dB
Key Features
- Pivoting tips help align the pods with the ear canals.
- Silicone-covered foam cores form the sealing surfaces.
- Banded design supports intermittent workplace use.
- Replacement tips are available separately.
Common Uses and Applications
- Manufacturing and assembly area visits.
- Machining, maintenance and equipment inspections.
- Food processing areas, subject to site hygiene requirements.
Select hearing protection using measured exposure and individual fit, not the industry name alone. Check any food-facility requirements for detectable PPE separately before ordering.
Choosing Banded Hearing Protection
Caboflex provides an alternative to roll-down foam plugs when workers frequently enter and leave designated noise areas. Handle the band with clean hands and keep the tips free from contamination. A band does not eliminate cleaning requirements or make contaminated-hand insertion safe.
The under-chin position can accommodate hard hats, but check the complete PPE combination while working and moving. Eyewear, head protection and other equipment must not disturb the seal. Compare fit, comfort and achieved attenuation before selecting one protector for an entire crew.
Care and Replacement
Inspect the band and both tips before use. Follow the supplied 3M instructions for fitting, cleaning, storage and replacement. Remove damaged protectors from service and replace worn or contaminated tips as directed. Confirm the replacement part matches your Caboflex model before purchase.
Hearing Protection Requirements
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 requires employers to evaluate hearing protector attenuation for the noise environment and provide fitting and training. An NRR label alone does not establish workplace compliance.
NIOSH recommends individual quantitative fit testing to determine personal attenuation. Laboratory NRR values do not guarantee the same reduction for each wearer. Use exposure measurements and fit results to assess suitability.
Manufacturer Documentation
3M U.S. Caboflex 320-2001 specifications and NRR ratings
3M Caboflex technical datasheet — UK/European version (PDF). This document reports SNR values; these are a different rating system and do not replace the U.S. NRR values above.
FAQ
Is this a case of 100?
No. ASA sells one complete banded hearing protector per order unit.
Can the band be worn over the head?
Use the documented under-chin or behind-head positions. Do not assume the stated ratings apply to other positions.
Are replacement tips included?
The protector has its fitted tips. Additional replacement tips are sold separately.
