![]() ![]() Yet, 3M proceeded with deceptively manufacturing, labeling, and marketing the “open” end of the product to have a 0 NRR.Īdditionally, the green or “closed” end of the earplug, which is meant to block the user from all surrounding noises with an NRR of 22, was found to have an NRR of 10.9, which is nearly half of the industry standard.ģM was able to have this approved through a means of manipulation for a second study of the “closed” end, the test subjects folded back the flaps of the yellow end to ensure a secure fit in the ear canal. For the yellow, “open” end, despite the industry standard being a 0 NRR, the product had a -2 NRR, which suggests amplification of all surrounding noises and nearly guarantees hearing damage. Since 2000, 3M tested the earplugs to ensure the proper noise reduction rating (NRR) for use in combat. When in combat, unbeknownst to the wearer, the earplugs can then loosen and no longer protect against hearing loss or meet the military standard trusted by soldiers nationwide - and it does not stop just there.ģM Knew About Earplug Defect As Military Sales Proceeded For example, the white “stem” that connects the yellow and green end of each earplug is too short, thereby limiting the soldier’s ability to adequately place the earplug in their ears for a secure fit. Unfortunately, despite its skyrocketing sales, recent developments have indicated significant defects in the design, testing, and execution of the earplugs. The earplug company saw much success in the following period, as they brought in $9 million in sales in 2006 alone.ĭefective Combat Earplugs Cause Hearing Loss in Soldiers Conversely, all sound is blocked out when worn in the “closed” position (or green end in).īeginning in 2004, all soldiers deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan were issued a set of the 3M earplugs. For instance, soldiers could hear and gauge their surroundings better when worn in the “open” position (or yellow end in). ![]() (or “Aearo”) before being bought by 3M in 2008, the earplugs were designed to have a dual purpose: providing soldiers with protection from extremely loud noises such as battlefield explosions, while also allowing them to hear quieter sounds such as conversations with fellow soldiers and officer commands depending on which end of the product that the wearer uses. Originally designed and manufactured by Aearo Technologies, Inc. When we fall short, our soldiers deserve justice.įrom 2003 to late 2015, the 3M Company, widely known as 3M, sold over 2.25 million pairs of dual-ended Combat Arms earplugs to soldiers in the U.S. ![]() Our military protects us every day, and we must return the honor. The Goss Law Firm - Your Kansas City Defective Device Attorneys HAVE YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE SUFFERED HARM CAUSED BY 3M Combat Earplugs?
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