Workplace Noise Regulations in the Music Industry: A Square Peg and a Round Hole

Robert M. Ghent, Jr.

Many audio professionals are familiar with community noise regulations, but have little understanding of occupational noise regulations. The audio industry is subject to the same requirements to protect the hearing of its workers as other industries. However, lack of enforcement has meant a free ride for decades. That may change, as it has in Europe, with increased awareness of music-induced hearing loss (MIHL). This tutorial provides an overview of US occupational noise regulations, their history and enforcement, implications for the entertainment industry, and a look at what we might learn from European Union (EU) regulations. We will end with a review of best practices in occupational hearing conservation that can be adopted in this industry now.