Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s living and craft, not just a mere sense. However, many musicians still believe that hearing loss is just an inescapable consequence of practicing their craft. This frame of mind, which regards hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both antiquated and harmful. The good thing is, recent legal developments and growing awareness are driving significant changes, challenging this harmful attitude and emphasizing the importance of hearing protection.
Noisy work environments and hearing safety
The music industry isn’t the only occupation that comes with loud settings. Similar risks can be found in industries 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 machinery 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 standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians depend on their hearing to perform, often leading to skepticism about hearing protection devices. There’s a common misconception that earplugs or earmuffs might hinder sound quality or performance, in spite of evidence to the contrary. This resistance is typically based on out-of-date information.
- Cultural Norms: People who make a living in the arts will often accept work conditions that may be less than optimal because they’re just grateful to be doing what they love. This culture of acceptance includes inadequate hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
It’s not only the musicians who face this “just part of the job” mindset, it also includes road crews, sound engineers, and event staff, whose hearing is also at risk. This collective complacency has historically led to a substantial number of individuals experiencing hearing-related problems.
Mindsets are changing because of legal precedents
Significant legal cases have begun to change industry mindsets toward hearing protection. A landmark case involving 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 needs 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 excused from the need for reliable hearing protection. It’s also pushing industry leaders to make the health and safety of their contractors and employees a top priority.
Addressing acoustic shock and tinnitus
It’s shocking how many music professionals suffer from some degree of hearing loss and tinnitus. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can result in persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and permanent hearing damage. The risk is particularly acute for individuals frequently exposed to loud settings, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
Luckily, modern hearing protection technologies, including specialized earplugs and earmuffs, are designed to protect hearing without diminishing sound quality.
Cultivating hearing loss prevention as a culture
Today it’s all about nurturing a cultural shift in the entertainment and music industry, not about being able to get specialized hearing protection. The primary aim is to move away from the antiquated 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 measures to protect hearing.
The prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decline with the growth of awareness and proactive measures. We should never think of hearing loss as an “unavoidable part of the job”. It is crucial for all professionals, regardless of their discipline, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for necessary protections.
By adopting this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can safeguard 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, give us a call to schedule a hearing test.
