Hearing is a vital part of a professional musician’s living and art, not just a mere sense. However, many musicians still think that hearing loss is just an inevitable outcome of practicing their craft. This attitude, which regards hearing damage as an inevitable consequence of the job, is both outdated and unhealthy.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 necessity of hearing protection.
Noisy work environments and hearing safety
The music industry isn’t the only occupation that comes with loud environments. Similar risks can be found in fields 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: Safety gear, like ear protection and hard hats, is essential because of dangers like falling objects and dangerous heavy machinery. This practice is well-incorporated into the work culture, making protective gear a standard expectation.
- Performance Concerns: Musicians rely on their hearing to perform, often resulting in skepticism about hearing protection devices. Despite contrary evidence, there is a prevailing misconception that earplugs will muffle sound quality. Outdated information is usually at the base of this misconception.
- Cultural Norms: The arts typically cultivate an environment where professionals feel fortunate just to have a job, leading them to accept suboptimal conditions without objection. Many people in the music industry feel as if raising concerns could put their careers at risk so they keep their potential worries about inadequate hearing protection to themselves.
It isn’t only the musicians who encounter this “just part of the job” mentality, it also includes roadies, sound engineers, and event staff, whose hearing is also at risk. A substantial number of individuals in the music industry have experienced hearing issues due to this collective complacency.
Mindsets are changing because of legal precedents
Industry mindsets with regard to hearing protection are shifting due to numerous legal cases. A landmark case involving the Royal Opera House in London showcased this shift. The brass section was creating hazardously loud conditions which caused serious hearing damage to one viola player who wasn’t provided with adequate ear protection. The court’s decision in favor of the viola player underscored that the music industry needs to adhere to workplace safety guidelines, including hearing protection.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder that no industry, including the music industry, is excused from the need for reliable hearing protection. It also signals a turning point, urging industry stakeholders to focus on the health and safety of their employees and contractors.
Dealing with acoustic shock and tinnitus
It’s shocking how many musicians suffer from some degree of hearing impairment and tinnitus. Chronic tinnitus, permanent hearing damage, and hyperacusis caused by exposure to very loud sound is known as acoustic shock. For DJs, musicians, and their crews who are continuously exposed to loud sound this is a particularly acute risk.
Luckily, modern hearing protection technologies, including specialty earplugs and earmuffs, are designed to safeguard hearing without diminishing sound quality.
Nurturing hearing loss prevention as a culture
Nowadays it’s all about nurturing a cultural shift in the entertainment and music industry, not about being able to find specialized hearing protection. The goal is to normalize the use of hearing protection and shift away from the outdated notion that hearing loss is an inescapable part of the profession. The Royal Opera House case has catalyzed this change, showcasing the need for proactive actions to protect hearing.
As awareness increases and protective strategies become standard, the prevalence of tinnitus and hearing loss in the music industry should decline. Hearing loss should never be considered “part of the job”. Safeguarding their hearing health and taking the proper safety measures is essential 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 protecting their most valuable instrument, their hearing.
If you are in the music industry and worried about your hearing health, call us to schedule a hearing exam.
