Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s livelihood and craft, not just a mere sense. However, many musicians still believe that hearing loss is just an inevitable consequence of practicing their craft. This is both an antiquated and harmful mindset. Fortunately, recent legal developments and growing awareness are creating substantial changes, challenging this detrimental attitude and emphasizing the importance of hearing protection.
Rethinking hearing safety in noisy work environments
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to high noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in fields like construction and manufacturing. However, these industries have generally been quicker to embrace protective measures compared to the music industry. A number of factors contribute to this disparity:
- Hazard Awareness: Safety equipment, like hearing protection and hard hats, is a must because of hazards like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. Protective equipment is a standard expectation that is well-integrated into the work culture as a result.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians depend on their hearing to perform, often resulting in skepticism about hearing protection devices. In spite of contrary evidence, there is a prevalent misconception that earplugs will mute sound quality. Outdated information is usually at the root of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: The arts typically cultivate an environment where professionals feel fortunate just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. Many people in the music industry feel like raising concerns could put their careers at risk so they keep their potential concerns about insufficient hearing protection to themselves.
It’s not only the musicians who encounter this “just part of the job” mentality, it also includes road crews, sound engineers, and event staff, whose hearing is also at risk. A considerable number of people in the music industry have experienced hearing problems due to this collective complacency.
Legal precedents and changing mindsets
Industry mindsets regarding hearing protection are shifting as a result of numerous legal cases. A landmark case concerning the Royal Opera House in London showcased this shift. A viola player, exposed to hazardously high levels of noise from the brass section during a performance, suffered extreme hearing damage and tinnitus because of a lack of sufficient protection. The viola player won the case and the court’s ruling declared that the music industry needs to follow workplace safety standards, and that includes hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no profession, including the music industry, is exempt from the need for reliable hearing protection. It also indicates a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to focus on the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
Dealing with acoustic shock and tinnitus
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is shockingly high. Acoustic shock, a condition brought about by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and irreversible hearing damage. The risk is particularly acute for those frequently exposed to loud settings, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
The good news is, musicians can now get specialized hearing protection that will safeguard their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Developing a culture of hearing loss preservation
The accessibility of effective hearing protection is no longer the issue; rather, it’s about cultivating a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The goal is to normalize the use of hearing protection and move away from the antiquated idea that hearing loss is an unavoidable part of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, emphasizing the need for proactive actions to safeguard hearing.
The preponderance of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decrease with the growth of awareness and proactive actions. Hearing loss should never be regarded as “part of the job”. Safeguarding their hearing health and taking the proper safety measures is essential for every professional regardless of what their job is.
With this paradigm shift, professionals in the music industry can continue to practice their craft while still protecting their most valuable instrument, their hearing.
Contact us for a consultation if you’re in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.