Low-Pressure Comfort with Reliable Noise Protection-Howard Leight Max Lite Corded Foam Earplugs
The Howard Leight Max Lite Corded Foam Earplugs are engineered for workers who need dependable hearing protection without discomfort. Featuring a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 30 dB, these earplugs deliver effective protection in moderate to high-noise environments.
Designed specifically for smaller ear canals, the soft, low-pressure foam expands gently for a secure fit without causing irritation—making them ideal for extended wear across long shifts. Pair with western style hard hat head protection.
Specifications
- Brand: Howard Leight
- Product Line: Max Lite
- Type: Corded foam earplugs
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 30 dB
- Material: Polyurethane foam
- Fit: Designed for smaller ear canals
- Color: Bright green
- Cord Type: Attached cord
- Standards: ANSI S3.19-1974, EN 352-2
- Packaging: 100 pairs per box (200 earplugs)
- Use Type: Disposable, single-use
Applications & Use
These earplugs are widely used in industries where comfort and fit directly impact safety compliance:
- Construction: Tools, compressors, and machinery
- Manufacturing: Production lines and equipment noise
- Utilities: Fieldwork and maintenance operations
- Warehousing: Equipment and loading activities
- Automotive: Repair and assembly work
- Industrial plants: Continuous operational noise
Features
- NRR 30 dB Protection: Reliable noise reduction for industrial environments
- Low-Pressure Foam: Soft polyurethane material reduces ear canal discomfort
- Designed for Smaller Ear Canals: Tapered shape ensures better fit and seal
- Corded Design: Keeps earplugs accessible and prevents loss
- Bright Green Color: Enhances visibility for compliance checks
- Pre-Shaped Design: Easy insertion with minimal rolling required
- Comfort for Extended Wear: Ideal for long shifts and continuous use
- Standards Compliance: Meets ANSI S3.19-1974 and EN 352-2
- Bulk Packaging: 100 corded pairs per box
Buying Guide: What NRR 30 dB Actually Means in Practice
NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) is measured in a controlled lab, so OSHA recommends derating it for real-world use. A common rule of thumb: subtract 7 from the NRR, then divide by 2 — for a 30 dB rating, that's roughly (30-7)/2, or about 11-12 dB of real-world reduction. That's still meaningful protection in moderate noise — power tools, busy warehouses, light machinery — but if you work around very high noise levels, such as punch presses or demolition, you may need a higher-NRR earplug, double protection (earplugs plus earmuffs), or both. If 30 dB doesn't feel like enough for your environment, our 33 dB foam earplugs offer the highest NRR available in a single-use plug.
Getting a Proper Seal (Most Earplugs Fail Here)
The biggest reason earplugs underperform isn't the product — it's insertion. To get the rated protection: roll the foam tip into a thin cylinder with clean fingers, reach over your head with your opposite hand to pull your ear up and back (this straightens the ear canal), then insert the rolled plug and hold it in place for 20-30 seconds while it expands. If you can still hear your own voice clearly as "loud" or "echoey," the seal is likely good. If conversation sounds normal and unmuffled, try reinserting.
Corded vs. Uncorded: Which Should You Choose?
Corded earplugs like these are ideal for workers who move between loud and quiet areas throughout the day — you can let them hang around your neck during a quiet task and pop them back in without searching for a replacement pair. Uncorded earplugs are often preferred in environments where a dangling cord could catch on machinery or moving parts. If your job involves rotating equipment, check your site's safety policy before choosing corded earplugs.
Where These Are Used
- Construction (tools, compressors, machinery)
- Manufacturing production lines
- Utilities fieldwork and maintenance
- Warehousing and material handling
- Automotive repair and assembly
- General industrial plants with continuous noise
FAQ
Who are Max Lite earplugs designed for?
They are specifically designed for workers with smaller ear canals who need a more comfortable fit.
What does NRR 30 dB mean?
NRR 30 dB provides strong noise reduction suitable for most industrial environments.
Are these earplugs comfortable for long shifts?
Yes. The low-pressure foam design makes them ideal for extended wear.
Why choose corded earplugs?
Corded earplugs reduce loss and allow easy removal and reinsertion during work.
Are these earplugs disposable?
Yes. They are designed for single-use hygiene and safety.
What industries use these earplugs?
They are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, utilities, and industrial environments.
Are these OSHA compliant?
They support OSHA hearing conservation programs when used as part of a hearing protection plan.
How many earplugs come in a box?
Each box contains 100 pairs (200 earplugs).
