Hearing is an essential part of a professional musician’s living and art, not simply a mere sense. Remarkably, many musicians still operate under the impression that hearing loss is an inevitable element of their profession. This mindset, which views hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both outdated and unhealthy. The good thing is, recent legal developments and growing awareness are driving substantial changes, challenging this detrimental attitude and emphasizing the necessity of hearing protection.
Rethinking hearing safety in noisy work conditions
Musicians aren’t the only professionals exposed to high noise levels. Occupations in construction, manufacturing, and other loud industries also face similar risks. However, the music industry has been a lot slower and more resistant to utilizing ear protection. There are a number of 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 gear a basic expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians tend to shun ear protection devices because they’re concerned that their sense of hearing will be dulled. There’s a prevailing 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 Out-of-date information is usually at the base of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: The arts typically cultivate an environment where professionals feel lucky just to have a job, prompting 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 impact of this “part of the job” mindset goes beyond musicians to other music industry professionals, such as sound engineers, roadies, and venue staff, who also face hearing risks. A significant number of individuals in the music industry have experienced hearing problems due to this collective complacency.
Attitudes are changing as a result of legal precedents
Industry attitudes with regard to hearing protection are shifting as a result of several legal cases. 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 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 needs to adhere to workplace safety standards, including hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no industry, including the music industry, is exempt 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.
How to deal with tinnitus and acoustic shock
It’s shocking how many musicians suffer from some degree of hearing impairment and tinnitus. 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 constantly exposed to loud sound this is an especially acute risk.
Fortunately, modern hearing protection technologies, including specialized earplugs and earmuffs, are designed to safeguard hearing without compromising sound quality.
Cultivating a culture of hearing loss preservation
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 objective is to move away from the antiquated notion that hearing loss is just an unavoidable part of being in the music industry and to normalize the use of protection. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive measures to protect hearing.
The preponderance of hearing loss and tinnitus in the music industry should decrease with the growth of awareness and proactive actions. We should never think of hearing loss as an “inescapable part of the job”. Protecting their hearing health and taking the appropriate safety steps is crucial for every professional no matter what their job is.
By embracing this new paradigm, musicians and industry professionals can protect their most valuable tool, their hearing, while continuing to succeed in their craft.
If you are in the music industry and concerned about your hearing health, give us a call to schedule a hearing screening.