Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s living and art, not only a mere sense. Surprisingly, many musicians still operate under the impression that hearing loss is an inescapable feature of their profession. This mindset, which views hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both outdated and unhealthy. Luckily, this harmful mindset is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal changes which emphasize how important using hearing protection is.
Rethinking hearing safety in noisy work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to loud noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, these fields have typically been quicker to adopt protective measures compared to the music industry. There are several reasons for this:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the array of hazards, like heavy equipment and falling objects, warrants the use of safety gear like hard hats and ear protection. This practice is well-integrated into the work culture, making protective equipment a common expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians tend to shun hearing protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be dulled. Despite contrary evidence, there is a prevailing misconception that earplugs will mute sound quality. This resistance is typically based on outdated information.
- Cultural Norms: The arts typically foster an environment where professionals feel privileged just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. 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 goes beyond musicians to other music industry workers, 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 problems.
Attitudes are changing as a result of legal precedents
Industry attitudes with regard to hearing protection are changing due to several legal cases. A landmark case concerning the Royal Opera House in London showcased this shift. The brass section was producing hazardously loud conditions which caused serious hearing damage to one viola player who wasn’t furnished with sufficient ear protection. The viola player won the case and the court’s ruling stated that the music industry has to follow workplace safety guidelines, and that includes hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical 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.
How to address tinnitus and acoustic shock
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is alarmingly high. Chronic tinnitus, irreversible hearing damage, and hyperacusis due to exposure to very loud sound is known as acoustic shock. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are regularly 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
The accessibility of effective hearing protection is no longer the issue; 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 antiquated idea that hearing loss is an inescapable aspect of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive actions to safeguard hearing.
As awareness increases and protective strategies become standard, the prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry should decline. Hearing loss should never be regarded as “part of the job”. Protecting their hearing health and taking the appropriate safety steps is essential for every professional regardless of what their job is.
By embracing this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable asset, their hearing, while continuing to excel in their craft.
If you are in the music industry and worried about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing test.