Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s livelihood and art, not just a mere sense. However, many musicians still believe that hearing loss is just an inescapable consequence of practicing their craft. This is both an outdated and harmful mindset. Luckily, this detrimental attitude is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal changes which emphasize how important using hearing protection is.
Rethinking hearing safety in loud work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only workers 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 utilizing ear protection. There are several reasons for this:
- 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 common expectation that is well-integrated into the work culture as a result.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians rely on their hearing to perform, frequently resulting in skepticism about hearing protection devices. There’s a widespread misconception that earplugs or earmuffs could interfere with sound quality or performance, in spite of evidence to the contrary. Outdated information is usually at the root of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: People who make a living in the arts will typically accept work conditions that might be less than optimal because they’re just thankful 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 concerns about inadequate hearing protection to themselves.
The effect of this “part of the job” mentality extends beyond musicians to other music industry professionals, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. A substantial number of individuals 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 due to several legal cases. This shift is underlined by a groundbreaking legal case involving the Royal Opera House in London. A viola player, exposed to dangerously high levels of noise 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 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’s also forcing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a focal point.
Dealing with acoustic shock and tinnitus
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is alarmingly high. Acoustic shock, a condition brought about by exposure to extremely loud noises, can result in persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and irreversible hearing damage. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are regularly exposed to loud sound this is a particularly acute risk.
The good news is, musicians can now invest in specialty ear protection that will safeguard 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 issue; rather, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The goal is to normalize the use of hearing protection and move away from the outdated idea that hearing loss is an inevitable aspect of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, highlighting 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. We should never think of hearing loss as an “inevitable part of the job”. It is essential for all professionals, regardless of their field, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for necessary protections.
With this paradigm shift, professionals in the music industry can keep practicing their craft while still protecting their most valuable tool, their hearing.
If you’re in the music industry and worried about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing exam.