Attitudes and Practices of Hearing Protection Used by Israeli College Music Students*

Abstract

Music students are frequently exposed to music at an intensity and duration that may be harmful to their hearing. Academic music students may develop hearing loss and related effects like: tinnitus, hyperacusis, and a feeling of blockage/opacity that are common after noise exposure. The damage caused by exposure to music is usually cumulative, the results of which (hearing loss and tinnitus) are only experienced at a later stage. Using hearing protection devices (HPD), such as earplugs, has been found to be helpful for hearing preservation in noisy environments. Various studies have shown that instruction on the use of HPD in noisy and loud music environments can increase the use of HPD, and avoid harmful exposure. This current study appears to be the first of its kind, and examines the attitudes and practices of music students in Israel regarding the use of HPD that can contribute to hearing conservation. The majority of music students in Israel do not use HPD. Findings of the study indicate that music students do not receive formal instruction on hearing protection from loud noise and music. Since damage to the auditory system from noise and loud music exposure can be irreversible, an educational program for music students is needed regarding hearing protection. It is recommended that the educational programs take place as part of the music school programs, to prevent exposure without the proper protection and prevent damage.