For professional musicians, hearing isn’t simply a sense, it’s a critical part of their art and livelihood. However, many musicians still think that hearing loss is just an unavoidable consequence of practicing their craft. This is both an outdated and unhealthy frame of mind. Luckily, this harmful attitude is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal developments which emphasize how important the use of hearing protection is.
Rethinking hearing safety in loud work environments
Musicians aren’t the only professionals exposed to high noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in sectors like construction and manufacturing. However, the music industry has been a lot slower and more resistant to making use of ear protection. Several factors contribute to this disparity:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the array of hazards, such as heavy machinery and falling objects, necessitates the use of safety gear including hard hats and ear protection. Protective equipment is a standard expectation that is well-incorporated into the work culture as a result.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians tend to shun hearing protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be muted. In spite of contrary evidence, there is a prevailing misconception that earplugs will mute sound quality. This resistance is usually based on out-of-date information.
- Cultural Norms: People who make a living in the arts will often accept work conditions that might be less than optimal because they’re just thankful to be doing what they love. This culture of acceptance includes inadequate hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
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. This collective complacency has historically led to a substantial number of individuals experiencing hearing-related issues.
Legal precedents and changing attitudes
Industry attitudes regarding hearing protection are changing 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 noise levels from the brass section during a performance, suffered severe hearing damage and tinnitus due to a lack of adequate protection. The court’s decision in favor of the viola player underscored that the music industry must follow workplace safety standards, including hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no profession, including the music industry, is excused from the need for reliable hearing protection. It also indicates a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to prioritize the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
How to address tinnitus and acoustic shock
It’s shocking how many music professionals suffer from some level of hearing impairment and tinnitus. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and irreversible hearing damage. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are continuously exposed to loud sound this is a particularly acute risk.
The good news is, musicians can now invest in specialty 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 reliable hearing protection is no longer the issue; instead, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The objective is to normalize the use of hearing protection and move away from the antiquated notion that hearing loss is an inescapable part of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, highlighting the need for proactive measures to protect hearing.
The prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decrease with the growth of awareness and proactive steps. Hearing loss should never be considered “part of the job”. It is crucial for all professionals, regardless of their discipline, 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 tool, their hearing.
Call us for a consultation if you are in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.
