Deafness Research UK warns against festival season hearing damage

Deafness Research UK has issued a warning to festival goers on the damaging effects that prolonged exposure can have on their hearing.

And while this might not be news to us in the pro audio industry, the organisation is stating that many festival goers do not realise the long term effects that exposure to loud music can have, and that sensible precautions must be taken.

The statement is as follows:

“How loud the music is and how long you are exposed to it determines how quickly your ears suffer damage,” warns Vivienne Michael, CEO of Deafness Research UK. “It takes only 15 minutes for the ear to be exposed to danger when listening to loud music at 100dBA. How quickly damage can be caused at festivals would depend on where you’re stood in the crowd, and for how long.”

The loud music booming from the amplifiers at each festival may provide perfect sound so that large crowds can hear and experience the full effects, but they also increase the chances of hearing problems and developing tinnitus, a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears which can be caused by over-exposure to noises.

While Deafness Research UK is not suggesting festival lovers should stop going to the events, they are advising that precautions are taken to make the experience safe while not impacting on the enjoyment. “Taking breaks from the main stage and away from the excessive noise is one simple start”, added Vivienne Michael. “Giving your ears chance to recover after the festival by avoiding loud noises for a few days after can also help,” she concluded.

Deafness Research UK also recommends taking ear plugs as the best protection for your ears and can be worn either all the time, or for periods to have a break from the volume.

Despite common misconceptions, ear plugs do not block out the sound, in fact they can help to improve it as conversations can be heard over the music. Whilst they are not yet the world’s biggest fashion accessory, new ear plugs have many designs and colours, as well as the simple skin coloured plugs to blend in. If the musicians wear them, surely fans can follow suit.

For more information on looking after your hearing and the latest findings on the dangers of listening to loud music, see the Deafness Research UK website www.deafnessresearch.org.uk

If you are concerned about hearing loss, you can access a wide range of free information from Deafness Research UK’s Information Service, on Freephone 0808 808 2222.