Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s living and art, not just a mere sense. However, many musicians still believe that hearing loss is just an inevitable consequence of practicing their craft. This mindset, which views hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both antiquated and unhealthy. Luckily, this detrimental mindset is being challenged by growing awareness and recent legal developments which highlight how important using hearing protection is.
Noisy work environments and hearing safety
The music industry isn’t the only occupation that comes with noisy settings. Similar risks can be found in industries like construction and manufacturing. However, the music industry has been much slower and more resistant to utilizing ear protection. Several factors contribute to this disparity:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the range of hazards, such as heavy machinery 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 equipment a common expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians have a tendency to shun ear protection devices because they’re worried that their sense of hearing will be muted. There’s a common misconception that earplugs or earmuffs might interfere with 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 Out-of-date information is usually at the root of this misconception.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: Individuals 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 inadequate 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, who also face hearing risks. This collective complacency has historically resulted in a substantial number of individuals experiencing hearing-related issues.
Attitudes are changing because of legal precedents
Industry attitudes regarding hearing protection are changing as a result of several legal cases. A landmark case involving the Royal Opera House in London showcased this shift. The brass section was creating dangerously loud conditions which caused major 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 declared that the music industry has to follow workplace safety guidelines, and that includes hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no industry, including the music industry, is excused from the need for effective hearing protection. It also indicates a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to focus on the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
Addressing acoustic shock and tinnitus
The prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry is alarmingly high. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to exceedingly loud noises, can lead to persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and irreversible hearing damage. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are continuously exposed to loud sound this is an especially acute risk.
The good news is, musicians can now get specialty hearing protection that will safeguard their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Cultivating a culture of hearing loss preservation
The availability of reliable hearing protection is no longer the problem; instead, it’s about fostering a cultural shift within the music and entertainment industries. The objective is to normalize the use of hearing protection and shift away from the antiquated idea that hearing loss is an unavoidable aspect of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive measures to safeguard hearing.
As awareness expands and protective strategies become standard, the incidence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry should decline. 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 appropriate 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 are in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.
