Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s living and craft, not just a mere sense. Surprisingly, many musicians still operate under the impression that hearing loss is an unavoidable aspect of their profession. This frame of mind, which views hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both antiquated and unhealthy. 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 noisy work environments
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to high noise levels. Similar risks can be found in fields like construction and manufacturing. However, these fields have generally been quicker to embrace protective measures compared to the music industry. There are several reasons for this:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the array of hazards, such as heavy equipment and falling objects, necessitates the use of safety gear including hard hats and ear protection. This practice is well-incorporated into the work culture, making protective gear a standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians tend to shun hearing protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be muted. There’s a common misconception that earplugs or earmuffs might interfere with sound quality or performance, despite evidence to the contrary. This resistance is typically based on outdated information.
- Cultural Norms: The arts often cultivate an environment where professionals feel fortunate just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. This culture of acceptance includes insufficient hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
The impact of this “part of the job” mentality goes beyond musicians to other music industry professionals, including sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, whose hearing is also at risk. This collective complacency has historically resulted in a significant number of people experiencing hearing-related problems.
Attitudes are changing as a result of legal precedents
Industry mindsets regarding hearing protection are changing as a result of several legal cases. This shift is highlighted by a groundbreaking legal case involving the Royal Opera House in London. The brass section was producing dangerously 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 has to follow workplace safety guidelines, and that includes hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a crucial reminder that no industry, including the music industry, is exempt from the need for effective hearing protection. It also signals a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to focus on the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
How to address tinnitus and acoustic shock
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is shockingly high. Acoustic shock, a condition brought about by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and permanent hearing damage. The risk is particularly acute for people frequently exposed to loud settings, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
The good news is, musicians can now get 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 availability of reliable hearing protection is no longer the problem; rather, it’s about cultivating a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The goal is to normalize the use of hearing protection and shift away from the outdated belief that hearing loss is an inescapable aspect of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, highlighting 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 measures. 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 appropriate protections.
By adopting this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can safeguard their most valuable asset, their hearing, while continuing to succeed in their craft.
If you’re in the music industry and worried about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing screening.