Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s living and art, not only a mere sense. However, many musicians still think that hearing loss is just an inescapable outcome of practicing their craft. This mindset, which views hearing damage as an unavoidable consequence of the job, is both antiquated and harmful. Luckily, this harmful attitude is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal developments which highlight how important using hearing protection is.
Rethinking hearing safety in noisy work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to high noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, these fields have generally been quicker to adopt protective measures compared to the music industry. A number of 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 gear is a standard expectation that is well-integrated into the work culture as a result.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians depend on their hearing to perform, frequently leading to skepticism about hearing protection devices. There’s a widespread misconception that earplugs or earmuffs could interfere with sound quality or performance, despite evidence to the contrary. This resistance is typically based on out-of-date information.
- Cultural Norms: The arts often cultivate an environment where professionals feel lucky just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. This culture of acceptance extends to inadequate hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
It isn’t only the musicians who encounter this “just part of the job” mentality, it also includes roadies, sound engineers, and event staff, whose hearing is also at risk. This collective complacency has historically resulted in a significant number of individuals experiencing hearing-related problems.
Legal precedents and changing attitudes
Industry mindsets regarding hearing protection are shifting as a result of numerous legal cases. This shift is highlighted by a groundbreaking legal case concerning the Royal Opera House in London. A viola player, exposed to hazardously high levels of noise from the brass section during a performance, suffered severe hearing damage and tinnitus because of a lack of adequate protection. The viola player won the case and the court’s ruling stated that the music industry needs to follow workplace safety standards, and that includes hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no industry, including the music industry, is exempt from the need for reliable hearing protection. It’s also forcing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a focal point.
Addressing acoustic shock and tinnitus
It’s alarming how many musicians suffer from some level of hearing loss and tinnitus. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to exceptionally loud noises, can result in persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and permanent 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 protect their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Nurturing hearing loss prevention as a culture
The accessibility of reliable hearing protection is no longer the problem; instead, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The main aim is to move away from the outdated notion that hearing loss is just an unavoidable part of being in the music industry and to normalize the use of protection. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive actions to safeguard hearing.
The prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decline with the growth of awareness and proactive actions. Hearing loss should never be considered “part of the job”. Protecting their hearing health and taking the appropriate safety steps is essential for every professional no matter what their job is.
By adopting this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable asset, their hearing, while continuing to excel in their craft.
If you’re in the music industry and concerned about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing screening.
