Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s livelihood 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 This mindset, which views hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both outdated and unhealthy. The good thing is, recent legal developments and growing awareness are creating significant changes, challenging this harmful attitude and emphasizing the necessity of hearing protection.
Rethinking hearing safety in loud work environments
Musicians aren’t the only professionals exposed to loud noise levels. Similar risks can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, the music industry has been much slower and more resistant to making use of ear protection. A number of factors contribute to this discrepancy:
- Hazard Awareness: Safety equipment, like ear protection and hard hats, is a must due to dangers like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. 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 This resistance is usually based on out-of-date information.
- Cultural Norms: Individuals 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 worries about inadequate hearing protection to themselves.
The impact of this “part of the job” mindset goes beyond musicians to other music industry workers, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. A considerable number of individuals in the music industry have experienced hearing issues due to this collective complacency.
Legal precedents and changing mindsets
Significant legal cases have started to shift industry mindsets toward hearing protection. A landmark case involving the Royal Opera House in London showcased this shift. The brass section was creating hazardously loud conditions which caused severe hearing damage to one viola player who wasn’t furnished with adequate ear 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 crucial reminder that no profession, 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 shocking how many musicians suffer from some degree of hearing loss and tinnitus. Chronic tinnitus, permanent hearing damage, and hyperacusis caused by exposure to extremely 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 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; rather, it’s about cultivating a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The objective is to normalize the use of hearing protection and shift away from the outdated idea that hearing loss is an inescapable aspect of the profession. The case of the Royal Opera House underscores the need to protect people’s hearing by taking proactive measures.
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 considered “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 adopting this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable tool, their hearing, while continuing to succeed in their craft.
If you’re in the music industry and concerned about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing exam.