SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus filtered Earplugs User Guide

SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus filtered Earplugs

Two Levels of Protection Against Two Types of Noise

Filtered EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus provides 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

NOISE REDUCTION RATING (NRR)

EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus – FILTER CAPS OUT

EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus – FILTER CAPS IN

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. EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus 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. EP4s should not be worn underwater in depths exceeding one meter.

EP4 Impulse Noise Reduction—Filter Caps Out

EP4 Impulse Noise Reduction—Filter Caps In

FITTING & TESTING

1. Starting with the EarLock® retention ring oriented slightly backward, rotate the earplug forward while inserting the stem of the red-filtered EP4 into the right ear canal deep enough for the uppermost flange to seal. Fit the retention ring to the natural contour of the concha bowl surrounding the ear canal to lock the earplug in place.
2. Check the seal by placing your fingertip over the outer hole of the filter and then removing it. Detection of a slight suction indicates a proper seal.
3. Repeat the process with a white-filtered earplug for the left ear.
4. Test earplugs by clapping, with filter caps out. If no noticeable decrease in volume, reinsert and retest.
5. To block lower-level noise* in quiet environments and to maximize protection, insert attached filter caps into filter holes and push in until snug.

• Inserting filter caps negates noise-reducing filters’ abilities to let ambient sounds and conversations pass safely through.

WARNING: If the instructions above are not adhered to, the protection afforded by EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus will be severely impaired.

STEM ADJUSTMENT

EP4 Sonic Defenders® Plus features adjustable stems to maximize fit and comfort. To adjust the stem, with the earplug removed from the ear, pull out or push in the stem to lengthen or shorten it for comfort.

CONNECTING/DISCONNECTING THE LANYARD

Remove the twist tie and uncoil the lanyard. Insert lanyard ends into small holes on the outside of EP4s, located beneath the noise-reducing filters, and push in until lanyard ends snap in place. To remove, pull gently on the lanyard ends until they disconnect from the earplugs.

CLEANING, STORAGE & PRODUCT LIFE

EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus typically lasts up to 6+ months, depending on usage and care. Clean with mild soap and water or alcohol swabs and allow to air dry. If exposed to salt water, rinse with fresh water and allow to air dry. Inspect earplugs regularly and replace them when they become stiff and hardened. Store in a cool, dry place in the included container. Do not leave in direct sunlight. In extreme storage temperatures, filters may separate from stems. If this occurs, filters must be reinserted into stems before use.

RADIO COMMUNICATION SYSTEM USE

An EP4 earplug can also serve as an earpiece for compatible radio communication systems by simply removing its noise-reducing filter (store in a safe place for future use) and inserting the system’s elbow connector into the hole previously occupied by the filter until snug.
NOTE: EP4s provide a reduced level of hearing protection with their noise-reducing filters removed.

SUREFIRE NO-HASSLE PROMISE

We’ll do what it takes to keep your SureFire gear running smoothly. SureFire warrants that if you—our customer—purchase one of our products, and we determine that it is defective in material and/or workmanship, we will repair or replace it for free or refund your money—no hassle! SureFire Hearing Protection products are warranted for 90 days from the date of purchase. Our warranty does not cover consumables, normal wear-and-tear, or damage resulting from abuse, alterations, unauthorized repairs, or use contrary to SureFire’s user manuals. For complete warranty information, visit www.surefire.com/warranty.

Support

• 18300 Mt. Baldy Circle
• Fountain Valley, CA 92708, U.S.A
• www.surefire.com/hearingprotection
• 800.828.8809

FAQs

Will these fit over my glasses?****

Yes, the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus fit over most eyeglasses.

Can I wear the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus under my helmet?****

Yes, the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus can be worn under a helmet. However, they may not fit under all helmets.

Can I wear the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus while wearing a mask or scarf?****

The EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus can be worn with a mask or scarf, but they may not fit under all masks or scarves.

How long will the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus last?****

The EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus have a shelf life of 5 years. They should be replaced after 5 years for maximum effectiveness.

Are the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus reusable?****

No, the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus are disposable and should be discarded after use.

Are there any special storage requirements for the EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus?****

The EP4 Sonic Defenders Plus should be stored in their original packaging when not in use to protect them from dust and debris. They should not be stored in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

How often should you clean your earplugs?****

Wash your reusable earplugs as often as possible, especially when you notice dirt on their surfaces. Don’t use solvents, alcohol, or alcohol-based disinfectants to wash your earplugs. Replace your pre-molded earplugs every 2-4 weeks. If you use push-in foam earplugs, replace them every five days.

What can I use instead of earplugs for sleep?****

While earplugs are an affordable and effective way to reduce nighttime noise, there are several other options, including headphones, sound apps, white noise machines, fans, and room modifications. Several sleep headphone designs are available, some of which rest in the ear and others outside.

How do filtered earplugs work?****

Filtered earplugs fit into your ear like a pair of in-ear headphones. The material forms a seal around the canal, while filters reduce the volume. There are two variations available: active and passive.

How many times can you use a pair of earplugs?****

They are made for one-time use, because they get dirty really quickly and are quickly infested with bacteria. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the same disposable earplug more than once, for reasons of hygiene. The average lifespan of custom-made earplugs is 4 to 5 years.

How long is it safe to wear ear plugs?****

Sounds over 97 dB (such as loud music heard through headphones) should be limited to a maximum of 30 minutes, but even low levels of noise (such as running a vacuum cleaner or leaf blower) can cause hearing damage if it is done for hours without interruption.

How do I make my earplugs comfortable?****

Do insert them properly. Foam earplugs are designed to expand in the ear for a custom fit. However, if they’re inserted improperly they can be uncomfortable and have reduced ear protection benefits. It’s important to roll the foam earplugs between your fingers and compress them well before inserting into the ear canal.

Do earplugs improve sleep quality?****

Earplugs can help block out distracting sounds and significantly improve your sleep. A 2021 study looked to determine the effect of using earplugs and eye masks on sleep quality and found that sleep disturbance was statistically significantly lower in patients with earplugs.

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