UNSPSC 46181900: Hearing protectors

UNSPSC 46181900 Hearing protectors is a Class code under which state and local governments procure commercially available hearing protection devices, typically battery-operated or passive earpieces, to protect public safety and municipal workers from occupational noise exposure. Recent solicitations show state agencies, counties, cities, and school districts buying hearing protection as part of broader personal protective equipment and first aid supply programs serving police, fire, and public safety personnel, as well as general workforce safety initiatives. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is implementing a newly established Public Safety Officer Hearing Protection Program (RFP 37721, due October 28, 2026) to supply state agencies and cooperative purchasing venture members with battery-operated hearing protection products; Jackson County, Missouri is procuring hearing protection among a mix of safety equipment and supplies (bid 26033, due June 9, 2026); and the City of Salem, Oregon awarded a contract for prescription safety glasses and related eye protection (bid 267083, closed August 26, 2026). The code also includes flight helmets and related headgear for specialized uses, as reflected in the City of Phoenix's procurement of Gentex Alpha Eagle flight helmets with accessories and repair services for helicopter crews (RFQ-26-0319, due July 6, 2026).

The recent-opportunity block reflects activity across the Upper Midwest, South, Mountain West, and Southwest, with Minnesota, Missouri, Oregon, Arizona, and Florida visible in the most recent postings. The Minnesota RFP is structured as a cooperative purchasing vehicle with both state-agency and CPV-member ordering authority, suggesting multistate reach. Jackson County's solicitation emphasizes Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area performance requirements and Missouri-vendor preference, typical of regional procurement discipline. Minnesota's Public Safety Officer Hearing Protection Program draws from 2025 legislation and is administered through the Department of Public Safety with a Microsoft Teams pre-proposal meeting scheduled for October 12, 2026; questions close October 16, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Central Time through kara.ramm@state.mn.us, with addenda issued in response. All responses must be submitted through the state's Supplier Portal with no email or paper submissions accepted. Jackson County's safety equipment bid allows split awards among multiple vendors and recognizes MBE and WBE status when accompanied by certifications; Missouri-manufactured goods receive preference when quality and price are equal or better.