Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s livelihood and craft, not only a mere sense. However, many musicians still think that hearing loss is just an unavoidable outcome of practicing their craft. This is both an antiquated and harmful mindset. The good thing is, recent legal developments and growing awareness are creating considerable changes, challenging this detrimental attitude and emphasizing the importance of hearing protection.
Noisy work settings and hearing safety
Musicians aren’t the only workers exposed to high noise levels. Similar dangers can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, the music industry has been a lot slower and more resistant to using ear protection. There are a number of reasons for this:
- Hazard Awareness: Safety gear, like hearing protection and hard hats, is a must because of hazards like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. This practice is well-integrated into the work culture, making protective equipment a standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians tend to shun hearing protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be dulled. There’s a prevailing misconception that earplugs or earmuffs may hinder sound quality or performance, despite evidence to the contrary. This resistance is usually based on outdated information.
- Cultural Norms: The arts typically cultivate an environment where professionals feel fortunate just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. This culture of acceptance extends to insufficient hearing protection, with many fearing that raising concerns could jeopardize their career opportunities.
The effect of this “part of the job” mentality goes beyond musicians to other music industry workers, including sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. This collective complacency has historically led to a significant number of people experiencing hearing-related issues.
Legal precedents and changing attitudes
Significant legal cases have started to shift industry attitudes toward hearing protection. A landmark case concerning the Royal Opera House in London highlighted this shift. A viola player, exposed to hazardously high levels of noise from the brass section during a performance, suffered severe hearing damage and tinnitus because of a lack of adequate protection. The court’s decision in favor of the viola player underscored that the music industry must 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 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 address tinnitus and acoustic shock
It’s alarming how many music professionals suffer from some level of hearing loss and tinnitus. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and permanent hearing damage. The risk is especially acute for individuals frequently exposed to loud settings, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
The good news is, musicians can now invest in specialized hearing protection that will safeguard their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Nurturing a culture of hearing loss preservation
The availability of effective hearing protection is no longer the issue; instead, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. 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, highlighting the need for proactive actions to protect hearing.
The preponderance of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decrease with the increase of awareness and proactive actions. Hearing loss should never be considered “part of the job”. Safeguarding their hearing health and taking the proper safety steps is crucial for every professional regardless of what their job is.
With this paradigm shift, professionals in the music industry can continue to practice their craft while still safeguarding their most valuable instrument, their hearing.
Contact us for a consultation if you are in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.