Surefire EP3 Sonic Defenders

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HEARING PROTECTION

EP3 Sonic Defenders

Two Levels of Protection Against Two Types of Noise

Filtered EP3 Sonic Defenders provide two levels of protection—with

their attached ﬁlter caps in or out—against two types of noise:

continuous noise (example: loud roar of an engine) and impulse noise

(example: gunshot). With the ﬁlter caps out of the noise-reducing ﬁlters,

loud potentially dangerous sounds (above 85dB) are lowered while

safe-level ambient sounds and conversations are allowed to pass

through and be heard. With the ﬁlter caps inserted, additional hearing

protection is afforded and ambient sounds and conversations are blocked.

FOR PROTECTION WITH THE ABILITY TO HEAR AMBIENT SOUNDS, leave ﬁlter caps

out, or pry out with your ﬁngernail if already inserted.

FOR MAXIMUM PROTECTION OR

SITUATIONS WHERE YOU DON’T WANT TO HEAR AMBIENT SOUNDS, insert ﬁlter caps

into ﬁlter holes and push in until snug.

NOISE ATTENUATION DATA

WARNING: Improper ﬁt of this device will reduce its effectiveness in attenuating noise.

Follow instructions for proper ﬁt. Failure to follow instructions could result in hearing loss

and/or injury. EP3 Sonic Defenders ﬁt most people; however, no hearing protection ﬁts

everyone. If proper ﬁt cannot be achieved following instructions, discontinue use. Do not

use in environments with extreme air/water pressure or where abrupt pressure changes

occur. EP3s should not be worn underwater in depths exceeding one meter.

NRR

Test Frequencies (Hz)

Mean Attenuation (dB)

Standard Deviation (dB)

125

10.3

4.0

250

11.1

3.9

500

16.5

3.5

1000

20.1

3.5

2000

26.6

4.1

3150

26.1

4.2

4000

24.9

4.3

8000

36.7

6.0

6300

30.8

4.6

EP3 Sonic Defenders - FILTER CAPS OUT

NOISE REDUCTION RATING

(NRR)

NRR

Test Frequencies (Hz)

Mean Attenuation (dB)

Standard Deviation (dB)

125

31.1

3.3

250

29.9

4.3

500

33.9

4.4

1000

31.2

2.9

2000

35.6

3.8

3150

37.5

5.7

4000

33.6

4.5

8000

43.5

6.3

6300

41.8

6.6

EP3 Sonic Defenders - FILTER CAPS IN

(when used as directed)

WITH FILTER CAPS OUT

WITH FILTER CAPS IN

132 dB Overall Average PIL

150 dB Overall Average PIL

168 dB Overall Average PIL

37.5

37.4

41.9

Average Peak Impulse Level dB Reduction

NOISE REDUCTION (dB)

EP3 Impulse Noise Reduction—Filter Caps Out

ANSI S12.42-2010

132 150 168

IMPULSE NOISE LEVEL (dB)

132 dB Overall Average PIL

150 dB Overall Average PIL

168 dB Overall Average PIL

23.2

28.9

29.1

Average Peak Impulse Level dB Reduction

ANSI S12.42-2010

NOISE REDUCTION (dB)

EP3 Impulse Noise Reduction—Filter Caps In

132 150 168

IMPULSE NOISE LEVEL (dB)

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Summary

Noise Attenuation Data

NRR Data: Filter Caps Out

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps removed, per ANSI S3.19-1974.

NRR Data: Filter Caps In

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps inserted, per ANSI S3.19-1974.

Impulse Noise Reduction: Filter Caps Out

Impulse noise reduction data for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps removed, per ANSI S12.42-2010.

Impulse Noise Reduction: Filter Caps In

Impulse noise reduction data for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps inserted, per ANSI S12.42-2010.

Fitting and Testing Procedures

Earplug Fitting Steps

Step-by-step instructions for correctly inserting and sealing EP3 Sonic Defenders in the ear canal.

Stem Adjustment for Fit

Guidance on adjusting the earplug stem length for optimal fit and comfort.

Lanyard Connection

Instructions on how to attach and detach the lanyard to the EP3 Sonic Defenders.

Product Care and Usage

Cleaning, Storage, and Lifespan

Recommendations for cleaning, proper storage, and expected product lifespan of EP3 Sonic Defenders.

Radio Communication System Use

Instructions for using EP3 Sonic Defenders as an earpiece for radio communication systems.

SureFire Warranty Information

No-Hassle Promise

Details of SureFire's warranty policy, including coverage and limitations for hearing protection products.

Summary

Noise Attenuation Data

NRR Data: Filter Caps Out

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps removed, per ANSI S3.19-1974.

NRR Data: Filter Caps In

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps inserted, per ANSI S3.19-1974.

Impulse Noise Reduction: Filter Caps Out

Impulse noise reduction data for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps removed, per ANSI S12.42-2010.

Impulse Noise Reduction: Filter Caps In

Impulse noise reduction data for EP3 Sonic Defenders with filter caps inserted, per ANSI S12.42-2010.

Fitting and Testing Procedures

Earplug Fitting Steps

Step-by-step instructions for correctly inserting and sealing EP3 Sonic Defenders in the ear canal.

Stem Adjustment for Fit

Guidance on adjusting the earplug stem length for optimal fit and comfort.

Lanyard Connection

Instructions on how to attach and detach the lanyard to the EP3 Sonic Defenders.

Product Care and Usage

Cleaning, Storage, and Lifespan

Recommendations for cleaning, proper storage, and expected product lifespan of EP3 Sonic Defenders.

Radio Communication System Use

Instructions for using EP3 Sonic Defenders as an earpiece for radio communication systems.

SureFire Warranty Information

No-Hassle Promise

Details of SureFire's warranty policy, including coverage and limitations for hearing protection products.

Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
Impulse Noise Reduction (ANSI S12.42-2010)
Usage Features
Fitting
Stem Adjustment
Lanyard Connection/Disconnection
Radio Communication System Use
Maintenance Features
Cleaning and Storage
Product Life
Warranty
Important Warnings

The SureFire EP3 Sonic Defenders are hearing protection devices designed to provide two levels of protection against different types of noise: continuous noise (like an engine roar) and impulse noise (like a gunshot). They feature attached filter caps that can be inserted or removed to adjust the level of hearing protection.

Function Description:

The EP3 Sonic Defenders offer versatile hearing protection. With the filter caps removed, they reduce loud, potentially dangerous sounds (above 85dB) while allowing safe-level ambient sounds and conversations to pass through and be heard. This mode is ideal for situations where situational awareness is important. When the filter caps are inserted, they provide additional hearing protection by blocking both ambient sounds and conversations, offering maximum protection in very noisy environments or when complete sound blockage is desired.

Important Technical Specifications:

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR):

Filter Caps Out: NRR of 11 Decibels.
- Attenuation Data (ANSI STD S3.19-1974):
  - Test Frequencies (Hz): 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3150, 4000, 6300, 8000
  - Mean Attenuation (dB): 10.3, 11.1, 16.5, 20.1, 26.6, 26.1, 24.9, 30.8, 36.7
  - Standard Deviation (dB): 4.0, 3.9, 3.5, 3.5, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.6, 6.0
Filter Caps In: NRR of 24 Decibels.
- Attenuation Data (ANSI STD S3.19-1974):
  - Test Frequencies (Hz): 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 3150, 4000, 6300, 8000
  - Mean Attenuation (dB): 31.1, 29.9, 33.9, 31.2, 35.6, 37.5, 33.6, 41.8, 43.5
  - Standard Deviation (dB): 3.3, 4.3, 4.4, 2.9, 3.8, 5.7, 4.5, 6.6, 6.3

Impulse Noise Reduction (ANSI S12.42-2010):

Filter Caps Out:
- 132 dB Overall Average PIL: 23.2 dB Reduction
- 150 dB Overall Average PIL: 28.9 dB Reduction
- 168 dB Overall Average PIL: 29.1 dB Reduction
Filter Caps In:
- 132 dB Overall Average PIL: 37.5 dB Reduction
- 150 dB Overall Average PIL: 37.4 dB Reduction
- 168 dB Overall Average PIL: 41.9 dB Reduction

Usage Features:

Fitting:

Insertion: Rotate the earplug forward, ensuring the EarLock® retention ring is slightly backward, and insert the stem of the red-filtered EP3 into the right ear canal until the uppermost flange seals. The retention ring should fit the natural contour of the concha bowl to lock the earplug.
Seal Check: Place a fingertip over the outer hole of the filter and then remove it. A slight suction indicates a proper seal.
Left Ear: Repeat the process with the white-filtered earplug for the left ear.
Testing: Clap with filter caps out. If volume is not noticeably decreased, reinsert and retest.
Maximum Protection: For lower-level noise in quiet environments or maximum protection, insert the attached filter caps into the filter holes and push until snug. Note that inserting caps negates the ability to hear ambient sounds and conversations.

Stem Adjustment:

The EP3 Sonic Defenders feature adjustable stems for a customized fit and comfort. To adjust, remove the earplug from the ear and pull out or push in the stem to lengthen or shorten it.

Lanyard Connection/Disconnection:

The lanyard can be attached by inserting its ends into the small holes on the outside of the EP3s, located beneath the noise-reducing filters, and pushing until they snap into place. To remove, gently pull on the lanyard ends until they disconnect from the earplugs.

Radio Communication System Use:

An EP3 earplug can function as an earpiece for compatible radio communication systems. This is achieved by removing its noise-reducing filter (store it safely for future use) and inserting the system's elbow connector into the hole previously occupied by the filter until snug. Note that this configuration provides a reduced level of hearing protection.

Maintenance Features:

Cleaning and Storage:

Cleaning: Clean with mild soap and water or alcohol swabs, then allow to air dry. If exposed to saltwater, rinse with fresh water.
Inspection: Regularly inspect earplugs and replace them if they become stiff or hardened.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in the included container. Avoid direct sunlight.
Filter Separation: In extreme storage temperatures, filters may separate from stems. If this occurs, filters must be reinserted into the stems before use.

Product Life:

EP3 Sonic Defenders typically last up to 6+ months, depending on usage and care.

Warranty:

SureFire offers a 90-day warranty on Hearing Protection products from the date of purchase, covering defects in material and/or workmanship. The warranty does not cover consumables, normal wear-and-tear, or damage from abuse, alterations, unauthorized repairs, or use contrary to user manuals. For complete warranty information, visit www.surefire.com/warranty.

Important Warnings:

Improper fit will reduce effectiveness. Follow instructions for proper fit to avoid hearing loss or injury.
Not all hearing protection fits everyone. Discontinue use if proper fit cannot be achieved.
Do not use in environments with extreme air/water pressure or where abrupt pressure changes occur.
EP3s should not be worn underwater in depths exceeding one meter.