Making Gigs Safer For Your Ears With Acoustic Foam

Reducing the amount of airborne noise is the purpose of sound absorbing acoustic foam. Sound is prevented from reflecting off walls by being absorbed into the acoustic foam, so the noise levels in the space are reduced. In order to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 this type of insulation is necessary.

The regulations were applied to the music and entertainment industry in 2008, two years after all other places of work because it needed a transition period. The very nature of the industry needed examination because there is sustained evidence that long term exposure to live music can cause permanent damage to a person’s ears and hearing.

Protecting everyone involved in the production of live performances is the priority of the regulations. Employers will be required to reduce and monitor noise exposure at their venue through using what can be simple and cost-effective controls. This will ensure the protection of workers and artists while allowing the audience to enjoy the performance still.

The regulations are supported by people working in the music and entertainment industry, some of whom have suffered from hearing problems through their work. Guitarist and regional officer for the Musician’s Union Paul Gray is supporting the regulations after he was forced to give up his touring career after suffering permanent hearing loss and other complications. Now he has to use ear protection everyday because of sensitivity to even quiet noises. Other supporters include DJs and musicians from across the music and entertainment industry.

The regulations will only apply to employees and performers at the venues. The public are not required to wear protective equipment such as ear plugs. This is due to the irregular pattern of people watching live performances and the reduced risk they take in listening to live music, as any hearing differences the experience are short term.