For professional musicians, hearing isn’t just a sense, it’s a vital part of their craft and livelihood. Remarkably, many musicians still perform under the belief that hearing loss is an inevitable feature of their profession. This is both an antiquated and unhealthy mindset. Luckily, this harmful mindset is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal developments which emphasize how important the use of hearing protection is.
Loud work environments and hearing safety
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to loud noise levels. Occupations in construction, manufacturing, and other noisy industries also face similar risks. However, these industries have generally been quicker to adopt protective measures compared to the music industry. Several factors contribute to this disparity:
- Hazard Awareness: Safety gear, like ear protection and hard hats, is a must due to dangers like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. This practice is well-integrated into the work culture, making protective equipment a standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians depend on their hearing to perform, frequently leading to skepticism about hearing protection devices. There’s a prevailing misconception that earplugs or earmuffs could hinder sound quality or performance, in spite of evidence to the contrary. Out-of-date information is normally at the base of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: People who make a living in the arts will typically accept work conditions that may be less than optimal because they’re just thankful to be doing what they love. Many people in the music industry feel like raising concerns could put their careers at risk so they keep their potential worries about inadequate hearing protection to themselves.
The impact of this “part of the job” mentality goes beyond musicians to other music industry professionals, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. This collective complacency has historically led to a significant number of individuals experiencing hearing-related issues.
Mindsets are changing due to legal precedents
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 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 needs to adhere to workplace safety guidelines, including hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a crucial reminder that no profession, including the music industry, is excused from the need for reliable hearing protection. It’s also pushing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a top priority.
Dealing with acoustic shock and tinnitus
It’s shocking how many musicians suffer from some degree of hearing loss and tinnitus. Chronic tinnitus, permanent hearing damage, and hyperacusis caused by exposure to very loud sound is known as acoustic shock. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are constantly exposed to loud sound this is an especially acute risk.
The good news is, musicians can now invest in specialized hearing protection that will protect their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Nurturing hearing loss prevention as a culture
Today it’s all about nurturing a cultural shift in the entertainment and music industry, not about being able to get specialized hearing protection. The goal is to normalize the use of hearing protection and shift away from the antiquated notion that hearing loss is an unavoidable part of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive actions to protect hearing.
The preponderance of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decline with the growth of awareness and proactive actions. Hearing loss should never be regarded as “part of the job”. It is essential for all professionals, regardless of their field, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for necessary protections.
By embracing this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable asset, their hearing, while continuing to succeed in their craft.
Call us for a consultation if you’re in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.
