Popular Matrix™ Earplugs Now Available in Corded Version

Smithfield, RI -- Howard Leight's popular Matrix™ earplugs are now available in a corded model, making them ideal for applications in a wide range of process industries. The new earplugs combine the added security and convenience of a corded product with all of the protection, comfort and attenuation features of the original Matrix design. These features include Matrix's uniform attenuation profile, which blocks harmful noise while voice frequencies can be heard more naturally. Like the original Matrix earplugs, the corded version is manufactured from a proprietary thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) using a patented, dual-density foam manufacturing process. The center is tightly compacted and much denser than the outer portions of the earplug. This creates a semi-rigid core that provides lateral resistance when pushed into the ear, allowing for easy insertion without the rolling and waiting for expansion required by traditional cylinder earplugs. The foam that makes up the rest of the Matrix earplug is softer and less dense. Matrix's smooth outer skin and smaller diameter make the earplug extremely comfortable for long-term wear. The uniform attenuation profile generated by the TPE foam blocks harmful noise while voice frequencies can be heard more naturally, combating worker isolation and overprotection on the job. This facilitates communication on the job, which has been shown to enhance the user's psychological well-being and improve compliance. Matrix is the first earplug to allow users to target the level of attenuation to the needs of their work environment. Multiple attenuation levels -- 29, 27 and 23 NRR -- have been verified by an independent NVLAP accredited lab, and are color-coded for easy identification. Since its beginnings as a one-man operation more than 30 years ago, Howard Leight Industries has grown into one of the largest manufacturers of in-ear hearing protection in the industrial market and is widely recognized as an innovator in protection and fit. Since 2001 Howard Leight has been a part of the Bacou-Dalloz™ Hearing Safety Group. Combining the innovation and expertise of Howard Leightç Earplugs and Bilsom® Earmuffs, the Bacou-Dalloz Hearing Safety Group is a world leader in hearing safety. Bacou-Dalloz is the world leader in the design, manufacture and sale of personal protective equipment, offering a comprehensive range of safety products designed to protect people from hazards in the workplace. The Group specializes in head protection equipment (eye and face, respiratory and hearing protection), body protection equipment (clothing, gloves and footwear) and fall protection equipment. With a worldwide presence and over 6,000 people, Bacou-Dalloz endeavors to contribute to ongoing improvements in workplace health and safety by providing innovative, comfort-engineered products that workers want to wear. The Group's products are sold through a worldwide network of distributor partners for use in all sectors of activity (construction, manufacturing, telecommunications, homeland security, petrochemicals, medical, public services, etc.). Bacou-Dalloz is listed on the Premier Marché of the Euronext stock exchange in Paris, and is part of the SBF 120 index.