Hellberg Local 446 Hearing Protection Headset

Important Warnings

This hearing protector is intended to protect the wearer from hazardous noise levels when fitted in accordance with this user instruction. Any other use is not intended and therefore not permitted. It is important that the instructions for use are followed. Failure to do so could result in a drastic decrease of the noise attenuation and may lead to serious injury.

• The hearing protector must be worn at all times in noisy environments to provide full protection. Only 100% wear time provides full protection.
• Do not remove the headset to change settings in a noisy environment. Use the menu system with guide voice while wearing the headset.
• The audibility of warning signals at a specific workplace may be impaired due to over-protection, when using a hearing protector with too high a noise attenuation performance in relation to the noise environment.
• When using hearing protection with entertainment audio features, adjust the volume when working in noisy environments so that any warning signals etc. can be heard.
• In some individuals, excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones may cause hearing loss.
• This hearing protector features the level-limiting of audio signals from the speakers to a maximum of 82 dB(A) at the ear.
• Do not use this product in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
• This product may be adversely affected by certain chemical substances. Further information should be sought from the manufacturer.
• Ensure that the hearing protectors are regularly inspected for serviceability.
• The earmuff is provided with safety related audio input. The user should check correct operation before use. If distortion or failure is detected, refer to the manufacturer's advice for maintenance and charging of the battery.
• The hearing protector's noise attenuating properties can dramatically decrease when used with, for example, thick eyeglass frames, ski masks/balaclavas, etc.
• Use of perspiration/hygienic protection over the sealing rings can reduce the hearing protector's noise attenuation properties.
• Earmuffs, and in particular cushions, may deteriorate with use and should be examined at frequent intervals for cracking and leakage.
• Immediately discard the product if it shows any signs of cracking or damage.
• Hygiene kit should be changed at least twice a year. Ensure you choose the correct hygiene kit for your hearing protector.
• Clean the product with mild soap. Ensure the detergent used does not irritate the skin. Do not dip the product in water.
• The hearing protector must be stored in a dry, clean environment out of direct sunlight, e.g. in its original packaging.
• Ensure battery condition and state of charge to ensure capacity is sufficient throughout a critical task. Battery capacity may deteriorate over time.
• Ensure matching configuration by testing communication before commencing critical task.
• Note: on communication radio, only one unit can transmit at the same time. A unit cannot receive a message while transmitting.
• Ensure that the used radio frequencies are license-free or obtain a license in the region you operate.

A. Parts Identification

The headset components are identified as follows:

• A1: Thermoplastic headband
• A2: Thermoplastic helmet attachment
• A3: Replaceable foam liner
• A4: Replaceable foam filled plastic ear cushions
• A5: Replaceable foam filled head cushion
• A6: Boom microphone
• A7: Level-dependent microphones
• A8: Charging socket
• A9: Socket for boom-microphone
• A10: Display
• A11: LED indicator
• A12: Volume DOWN and decrease setting button
• A13: Volume UP and increase setting button
• A14: On/Off button
• A15: Level dependent button
• A16: PTT (Push To Talk) button
• A17: Battery pack
• A18: Battery pack thumb screw

Diagrams show the headset from front, side, and close-up views, illustrating the location of these parts.

B. Accessories and Spare Parts

The following accessories and spare parts are available:

• B:1: Hygiene kit (Part No: 99403-001)
• B:2: Sweat absorbers (Part No: 99900-001)
• B:3: Windshield for boom microphone (Part No: 16999-001)
• B:4: USB charging cable (Local) (Part No: 39927-001)
• B:5: Boom microphone (Part No: 16982-001)
• B:6: Windshield for level dependent microphones (Part No: 1059-001)
• B:7: Spare headband electronic (Part No: 26046-915)
• B:8: Spare helmet arm (pair) (Part No: 26108-910)
• B:9: Battery pack AA (Part No: 17004-001)
• B:10: Battery pack gasket (Part No: 17112-001)
• B:11: Charger EU (Part No: 17193-001)
• B:12: Charger UK (Part No: 17193-007)

Diagrams illustrate these items.

C. Fitting and Adjustment

Ensure a comfortable and secure fit for optimal performance.

Headband (pic. C1)

Brush away all hair from your ears. Place the earmuffs over your ears so they fit comfortably and snugly, ensuring your ears are completely enclosed by the earmuffs and that you have even pressure around your ears. Adjust the headband size so that it rests lightly against the crown of your head.

Helmet Mount (pic. C2, C3)

Push the hearing protectors' helmet attachment into the helmet slot until it locks into position. Place the hearing protectors over your ears and press inwards until you hear a click. Adjust the hearing protectors and helmet so they fit comfortably.

Boom Microphone (pic. C4)

The boom microphone (A:6) should be placed approximately 1 cm [0.4 inches] from the mouth for best noise suppression and clear speech intelligibility. Ensure the microphone is facing the mouth, with the TALK text imprint towards the mouth. Attach the Windshield (B:3) for use in windy environments.

D. Change of Hygiene Kit

The hygiene kit should be changed at least twice a year for optimal performance and hygiene.

1. Remove the old foam liner (A3) and insert the new.
2. Pull off the old ear cushion (A4).
3. Centre the new ear cushion over the hole.
4. Press with a finger along the outside of the ear cushion until it attaches all around the edges.
5. Pull off the old head cushion (A5) and insert the new.

Diagrams illustrate these steps.

E. Approval & Technical Data

85001-001 Local 446 Headband

Weight: 513 g. Certified to EN 352-1:2020.

85101-001 Local 446 Helmet Mount

Weight: 547 g. Certified to EN 352-3:2020.

Certification and Monitoring

PZT GmbH, Bismarckstrasse 264 B, 26389 Wilhelmshaven, Germany. Notified Body: 1974. Notified by ZLS.

Tested and Certified to:

• PPE regulation (EU) 2016/425 and applicable parts of European standards:
• EN 352-1:2020 (Headband)
• EN 352-3:2020 (Helmet Mount)
• EN 352-4:2020 (Level Dependent)
• EN 352-6:2020 (Headset Profile max SPL is below 82dB(A))

Criterion level EN 352-4: H= 112,7 dB, M= 110,5 dB, L= 97,1dB

Max. SPL EN 352-6: 79,6 dB(A) at -12,5 dBm

Level Dependent Function Data

Radio Equipment Directive (RED) 2014/53/EU (Europe)

NEMKO Norway, Notified Body: 0471.

English is the language examined by Notified Body. English has interpretive precedence.

Radio Specifications

• Radio standard: PMR 446 MHz (EU)
• Channel separation: 12,5 kHz
• Modulation: FM
• Number of Ch.: 16
• Sub channel coding: CTCSS
• Number of Sub channels: 38
• Transmit power: 150/50/10 mW ERP
• Range: 3 km line of sight
• Receiver sensibility: Typical -120 dBm
• Power supply: 2 x AA user replaceable 1,2-1,5 V
• Included Batteries: 2 x NiMh 2600 mAh
• Weight: 513 g (Headband), 547 g (Helmet Mount)
• Battery operation time: 12 hours normal operation
• Battery standby time: 20 hours
• Battery charging time: Up to 5 hours
• Water and dust resistance: IP 56
• Approvals/Compliance: EN 352, RED, ROHS, REACH, WEEE
• Operating temperature: -20 to +55°C

G. Approved Helmet Combinations

These earmuffs attached to head protection and/or face protection devices shall be fitted to, and used only with, the carriers listed in table G.

Note: Secure Passives Series, Electronics Models; Local, Xstream, React, Active, Relax. Supplementary helmet list according to EN 352-3.

Radio Channels (MHz)

Sub channels CTCSS (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System) (Hz)

User Instructions

Two-Way Communication

Charge the headset prior to first use. Refer to the Charging section.

Operation

• Power ON/OFF: Press and hold the on/off button (A14) for 4 seconds.
• Transmit: To transmit on the configured channel, press and hold the PTT button (A16).
• VOX Activated Transmission: If VOX is activated, simply speak into the microphone.
• Level Dependent (LD) Function: Press the LD button (A15) to turn the LD function ON/OFF.

Configuration

Configuration can be done while wearing the headset or holding it. Warning: Never remove hearing protection when exposed to noise.

• All navigation and configuration are guided by voice messages.
• The display shows a home screen with radio channel, sub channel, function icons, and a battery indicator.
• By default, the UP (A13) and DOWN (A12) buttons adjust radio volume.
• Press the On/Off button (A14) to enter the menu.
• Navigate through settings using the UP/DOWN buttons.
• Press On/Off again to enter edit mode for the selected setting.
• Use UP/DOWN buttons to change values.
• Confirm and exit settings with the On/Off button.

The menu system returns to the home screen automatically after 10 seconds of inactivity, or manually with a long press on the on/off button.

Menu Items

• <Channel>: Set the radio channel (1-16, may vary by region).
• <Sub Ch>: Set the sub channel for selective squelch (OFF, 1-38). Only transmissions with a matching sub channel will be heard.
• <VOX>: Set the VOX threshold (OFF, 1-4, MAX). A lower threshold means a weaker mic signal activates transmission.
• <Sidetone>: Set the volume of your own voice heard in the headset when transmitting (1-4, MAX).
• <Battery>: The guide voice reads the battery status.

Level-Dependent "Active Listening" Function

Pressing the LD button (A15) activates this function, confirmed by a voice message and a display symbol. Volume is adjustable in 5 levels (1-MAX). The headset remembers the last volume setting. For windy environments, fit windshields (B:6) over the Level Dependent microphones (A7).

Warning: The output of the level-dependent circuit may exceed the external sound level.

Radio Volume

Adjust radio volume using UP (A13) and DOWN (A12) buttons (OFF, 1-4, MAX). To turn the radio OFF, press and hold the DOWN button when on volume level 1. A radio off notification will be heard at 10-minute intervals. To turn the radio ON, increase the radio volume.

PTT (Push To Talk)

Press and hold the PTT button (A16) to transmit. Release to stop transmitting.

Radio Channel (Frequency)

Refer to Table E:12 for available channels and frequencies. Radios configured on the same channel can communicate.

Sub Channel (Selective Squelch)

Sub channels allow multiple groups to use the same radio channel without interference. Transmissions are coded with the sub channel; only messages on the same sub channel are heard. A unit with sub channel OFF hears all groups. Sub channel grouping uses tones to open the selective squelch. Refer to Table E:13 for sub channels and tone frequencies.

VOX (Voice Operated Transmission)

When VOX is activated, transmission starts automatically when the speech signal exceeds a set threshold. Enable/disable VOX and set the threshold (OFF, 1-4, MAX) via the menu or by double-pressing the PTT button. A lower threshold requires less voice volume to transmit. A higher threshold may prevent false triggering in noisy environments. A VOX symbol appears on the display when enabled. The PTT button can also manually control transmission.

Note: For reliable VOX triggering, the microphone (A6) should be correctly rotated and approximately 1 cm from your mouth.

Sidetone

Playback of transmitted audio in the headset (1-4, MAX). Confirms transmission and helps maintain normal speaking levels.

Battery

Voice prompts announce battery level: LOW (0-20%), MED (20-80%), HIGH (80-100%).

Advanced Menu

From the home screen, press and hold both UP (A13) and DOWN (A12) buttons to enter the advanced menu:

• <TX allow>: Sets when transmission is allowed (always, channel free).
• <TX power>: Sets radio transmitting power (LO, MED, HI). Higher power extends range; lower power saves battery.
• <Voice>: Activates/deactivates voice prompts (ON, OFF).
• <Version>: Displays product serial number and revision.
• <Squelch>: Sets squelch threshold (1-4, MAX) for radio noise suppression.
• <Reset>: Resets device to factory default settings.

TX Allow (Busy Channel Lockout)

Configures when radio transmission is allowed, affecting both PTT and VOX. Two descending tones indicate transmission is prevented. Settings: Always, Channel free.

TX Power

Sets the transmission power (LO, MED, HI). Higher power can extend range or improve reception. Lower power uses less battery. TX power automatically reduces from HI to LO if battery status is low. HI TX power is not recommended with Alkaline batteries due to reduced operating time.

Voice

Selects if voice prompts are activated (ON, OFF).

Version

Displays product serial number and product revision.

Squelch (Radio Noise Suppression)

Noise from radio reception is blocked when the incoming signal is below the set squelch threshold (1-4, MAX). A lower setting may increase radio range but might allow more noise.

Reset

Resets device to factory default settings.

Battery Save Function

The headset automatically turns off after 10 minutes of inactivity or 2 hours of inactivity if no movement is detected.

Low Battery Warning

A voice prompt "battery low" is heard when approximately 10% of operation remains. Charge the batteries as soon as possible. The headset will turn OFF when batteries are drained.

Replacement of Batteries

Unscrew the thumbscrew (A18) securing the battery pack (A17). Remove the battery pack. Replace batteries, noting orientation. The headset can use rechargeable (NiMH) or disposable AA batteries (1.5V). Alkaline batteries are suitable for short-term use only due to reduced operating time.

Warning: Using battery types other than specified may cause explosion. Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Ensure the sealing gasket is in place around the battery pack compartment. Reinsert the battery pack, ensuring the protruding part is inserted in its sleeve. Gently tighten the thumbscrew.

Charging of Batteries

Never connect a charger if disposable batteries are used. Charge rechargeable batteries before first use. For safety, all headset functions are automatically switched OFF during charging.

The headset charges when connected to a USB power supply using the supplied USB charge cable (B:4). Ensure the cable is correctly connected to the charging socket (A8). Batteries must be inserted before connecting the cable.

Power supply specifications: Output DC 5V 1000 mA (Limited Power Source - LPS).

• Charging: LED (A11) flashes green.
• Fully charged: LED (A11) shows solid green.
• Error: LED (A11) flashes green with high frequency.

Disconnect the charger cable when batteries are fully charged.

Important Charging Notes:

• Use AA NiMH rechargeable batteries or similar performance.
• Never use batteries with more than 1.5V.
• Never leave the battery pack/headset unattended while charging.
• Do not use the headset while batteries are charging.
• Only use a power supply and cable as specified by the manufacturer.
• Charge batteries at room temperature (10-25°C / 50-77°F).
• Do not disassemble, crush, or expose batteries to extreme heat or fire.
• If storing the unit for a longer time, remove batteries from the battery pack.

Following these instructions ensures the product is unlikely to present hazards according to EN 60950-1.

Declarations and Compliance

Hellberg Safety AB declares that the hearing protector Local 446 complies with PPE regulation EU 2016/425 and the RED Directive 2014/53/EU. The full EU declaration of conformity is available at: www.hellbergsafety.com/declaration-of-conformity.

For manufacturing date, see the date clock inside the ear cup. Expected product lifetime (excluding batteries) is 5 years. Serial number is on a label on the bottom of the ear cup.

This product is covered by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) 2012/19/EU. Do not dispose of your product as unsorted municipal waste. Batteries must be disposed of in accordance with national regulations. Use local recycling systems for electronic products.

UKCA Compliance

PPE regulation 2016/425 as brought into UK Law and amended. UK Approved Body: SATRA Technology Center Limited, 0321. RED Directive 2014/53/EU and Radio Equipment Regulations 2017.

Importer UK: HULTAFORS GRUOP, Unit N3, Gate 4, Meltham Mills Ind Estate, HD9 4DS Holmfirth, UK.

Approved Body UK: SATRA Technology Centre, Wyndham Way, Telford Way, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 8SD, UK.

UKCA declaration of conformity is available at: www.hellbergsafety.com/declaration-of-conformity.