Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s living and craft, not simply a mere sense. However, many musicians still think that hearing loss is just an inescapable result of practicing their craft. This is both an antiquated and unhealthy mindset. Fortunately, recent legal developments and growing awareness are creating considerable changes, challenging this harmful attitude and emphasizing the importance of hearing protection.
Rethinking hearing safety in loud work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only professionals exposed to loud noise levels. Vocations in construction, manufacturing, and other noisy industries also face similar risks. However, these industries have generally been quicker to embrace protective strategies compared to the music industry. Several factors contribute to this discrepancy:
- Hazard Awareness: Safety gear, like ear protection and hard hats, is essential due to hazards like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. This practice is well-incorporated into the work culture, making protective gear a common expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians have a tendency to shun ear protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be dulled. In spite of contrary evidence, there is a widespread misconception that earplugs will muffle sound quality. Out-of-date information is usually at the root of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: People who make a living in the arts will typically accept work conditions that might be less than optimal because they’re just grateful to be doing what they love. Many people in the music industry feel as if raising concerns could put their careers at risk so they keep their potential concerns about inadequate hearing protection to themselves.
The impact of this “part of the job” mindset extends beyond musicians to other music industry workers, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, whose hearing is also at risk. This collective complacency has historically resulted in a significant number of people experiencing hearing-related issues.
Legal precedents and changing mindsets
Industry attitudes regarding hearing protection are shifting due to several legal cases. A landmark case concerning the Royal Opera House in London highlighted this shift. The brass section was producing hazardously loud conditions which caused major hearing damage to one viola player who wasn’t provided with adequate ear protection. The viola player won the case and the court’s ruling stated that the music industry needs to follow workplace safety guidelines, and that includes hearing protection.
Every industry that is overly loud, including the music industry, needs to have safety standards in place that require hearing protection, and this ruling is an essential reminder of that. It’s also pushing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a top priority.
How to address tinnitus and acoustic shock
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is alarmingly high. Acoustic shock, a condition brought about by exposure to exceptionally loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and permanent hearing damage. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are continuously exposed to loud sound this is an especially acute risk.
Fortunately, contemporary hearing protection technologies, including specialty earplugs and earmuffs, are designed to protect hearing without diminishing sound quality.
Nurturing hearing loss prevention as a culture
The accessibility of effective hearing protection is no longer the problem; instead, it’s about cultivating a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The primary aim is to move away from the antiquated idea that hearing loss is just an inevitable part of being in the music industry and to normalize the use of protection. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, emphasizing the need for proactive actions to protect hearing.
The prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decline with the growth of awareness and proactive measures. Hearing loss should never be considered “part of the job”. It is crucial for all professionals, regardless of their field, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for necessary protections.
With this paradigm shift, professionals in the music industry can continue to practice their craft while still protecting their most valuable instrument, their hearing.
Give us a call for a consultation if you’re in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.
