Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s livelihood and craft, not just a mere sense. Surprisingly, many musicians still perform under the impression that hearing loss is an inevitable aspect of their profession. This mindset, which regards hearing damage as an unavoidable consequence of the job, is both outdated and unhealthy. Fortunately, recent legal developments and growing awareness are creating substantial changes, challenging this detrimental 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 noisy environments. Vocations in construction, manufacturing, and other loud industries also encounter similar risks. However, these industries have typically been quicker to adopt protective strategies compared to the music industry. There are several reasons for this:
- Hazard Awareness: In construction and manufacturing, the array of hazards, like heavy machinery and falling objects, warrants the use of safety gear like hard hats and ear protection. This practice is well-incorporated into the work culture, making protective gear a common expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians rely on their hearing to perform, often leading to skepticism about hearing protection devices. In spite of contrary evidence, there is a prevailing misconception that earplugs will muffle sound quality. This resistance is usually based on out-of-date information.
- Cultural Norms: The arts often cultivate an environment where professionals feel privileged just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without protest. This culture of acceptance includes inadequate 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, including sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. A considerable number of individuals in the music industry have experienced hearing issues due to this collective complacency.
Mindsets are changing as a result of legal precedents
Industry attitudes regarding hearing protection are shifting as a result of several legal cases. This shift is underlined by a groundbreaking legal case involving the Royal Opera House in London. A viola player, exposed to dangerously high noise levels from the brass section during a performance, suffered major hearing damage and tinnitus because of a lack of sufficient protection. The court’s decision in favor of the viola player underscored that the music industry must adhere to workplace safety guidelines, including hearing protection.
Every industry that is overly loud, including the music industry, needs to have safety standards in place that require hearing protection, and this ruling is a crucial reminder of that. It also indicates a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to prioritize the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
Dealing with acoustic shock and tinnitus
It’s alarming how many musicians suffer from some degree of hearing loss and tinnitus. Acoustic shock, a condition triggered by exposure to extremely loud noises, can result in persistent tinnitus, hyperacusis, and irreversible hearing damage. The risk is especially acute for people frequently exposed to loud settings, such as DJs, classical musicians, rock bands, and their support crews.
The good news is, musicians can now get specialty ear protection that will protect their hearing while still allowing them to get accurate sound fidelity.
Nurturing hearing loss prevention as a culture
Today it’s all about creating a cultural shift in the entertainment and music industry, not about being able to find specialized hearing protection. The primary aim is to move away from the outdated belief that hearing loss is just an inevitable 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 decrease with the growth of awareness and proactive measures. Hearing loss should never be regarded as “part of the job”. It is essential for all professionals, regardless of their field, to prioritize their hearing health and advocate for appropriate protections.
By adopting this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable asset, their hearing, while continuing to succeed in their craft.
Contact us for a consultation if you’re in the music industry and have concerns about the health of your hearing.