MSA Comfort Band Hearing Protector – NRR 23 dB
The MSA Comfort Band 10003344 is a banded hearing protector designed for under-the-chin wear. Soft, cleanable ear pods are joined by a durable plastic neckband. MSA lists a Noise Reduction Rating of 23 dB for this model and identifies ANSI S3.19-1974 as the NRR test standard in its product bulletin.
The connected band keeps both pods together for handling. Outside hazardous noise, it can rest around the neck between uses. Before returning to a noisy area, refit the protector according to the supplied instructions and confirm that both pods remain correctly positioned.
Quick Buying Details
Key Features
- Banded hearing-protection format
- Soft ear pods that can be cleaned
- Durable plastic neckband
- Under-the-chin wearing position
- Neck-rest storage when protection is not needed
Common Uses & Applications
- Manufacturing and workshop tasks
- Maintenance and equipment-service areas
- Warehouse and industrial operations
- Movement between designated quiet and noisy areas
Use only when the noise assessment and individual fit establish adequate protection.
What NRR 23 dB Means
NRR is a laboratory rating, not a guarantee that every wearer receives 23 dB of protection. Do not simply subtract 23 from a workplace sound-level reading to determine safe exposure. Fit, wear time and noise characteristics affect the protection achieved.
NIOSH recommends individual quantitative hearing-protector fit testing to evaluate each worker's attenuation. Being able to hear conversation is not, by itself, a reliable fit test. Select protection using measured exposure and fit results rather than gender or assumed ear size.
OSHA Hearing Conservation
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 governs occupational noise exposure in general industry. Its hearing-conservation provisions apply at an eight-hour time-weighted average of 85 dBA, including required monitoring, training and audiometric testing. Employers must evaluate hearing-protector attenuation for the specific noise environment.
A product's NRR does not establish compliance by itself. Hearing protection must be properly fitted, maintained and worn when required; it does not replace required noise-control measures.
Fit and Maintenance
Follow MSA's instructions for placement and cleaning. Inspect pods for damage or contamination and the band for cracks or distortion. Replace worn components or the protector as instructed. Do not improvise replacement tips or change the wearing position.
Check fit with other PPE worn during the task. This is a banded ear protector, not a hard-hat-mounted earmuff, and universal compatibility with helmets or other equipment is not established.
Manufacturer Documentation
MSA ear plugs and bands bulletin: Comfort Band 10003344 (PDF)
FAQ
- Is this specifically designed for women or children? MSA's reviewed bulletin does not identify a women-specific or child-specific fit.
- Can it be worn over the head? MSA specifies under-the-chin wear for this model.
- Is NRR 23 a personal protection measurement? No. Individual fit testing measures the attenuation achieved by the wearer.
