Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s livelihood and art, not simply a mere sense. However, many musicians still believe that hearing loss is just an inescapable result of practicing their craft. This attitude, which regards hearing damage as an unavoidable consequence of the job, is both antiquated and unhealthy. Luckily, this harmful mindset is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal developments which highlight how important using hearing protection is.
Rethinking hearing safety in noisy work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only professionals exposed to high noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, the music industry has been much slower and more resistant to utilizing ear protection. There are several reasons for this:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the array of hazards, like heavy equipment and falling objects, necessitates the use of safety gear like hard hats and ear protection. This practice is well-integrated into the work culture, making protective equipment a standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians rely on their hearing to perform, often leading to skepticism about hearing protection devices. There’s a common misconception that earplugs or earmuffs could hinder sound quality or performance, in spite of evidence to the contrary. Out-of-date information is usually at the root of this misconception.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 may be less than optimal because they’re just thankful to be doing what they love. This culture of acceptance extends to insufficient hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
The impact of this “part of the job” mindset goes beyond musicians to other music industry professionals, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, whose hearing is also at risk. This collective complacency has historically resulted in a significant number of individuals experiencing hearing-related issues.
Legal precedents and changing attitudes
Significant legal cases have started to change industry attitudes toward hearing protection. This shift is highlighted by a groundbreaking legal case concerning the Royal Opera House in London. The brass section was creating hazardously loud conditions which caused severe hearing damage to one viola player who wasn’t provided with adequate 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 crucial reminder that no profession, including the music industry, is excused from the need for effective hearing protection. It’s also forcing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a focal point.
How to deal with tinnitus and acoustic shock
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is alarmingly high. Chronic tinnitus, permanent hearing damage, and hyperacusis caused by exposure to very loud sound is known as acoustic shock. The risk is particularly acute for those frequently exposed to loud environments, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
The good news is, musicians can now get specialty ear protection that will safeguard their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Cultivating hearing loss prevention as a culture
The availability of effective hearing protection is no longer the problem; rather, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The primary objective is to move away from the outdated belief that hearing loss is just an inescapable part of being in the music industry and to normalize the use of protection. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, emphasizing the need for proactive actions to safeguard hearing.
The prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decrease 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 discipline, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for necessary protections.
With this paradigm shift, professionals in the music industry can continue to practice their craft while still protecting their most valuable instrument, their hearing.
Call us for a consultation if you’re in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.