This workshop falls under the category of an AES Tutorial. This workshop outlines the tested method implemented in a small house of worship, and aims to demystify WHO standards as well as communicate an effective solution to implement hearing health monitoring.
Implementing affordable and efficient hearing health monitoring in small music venues is crucial to align with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines aimed at preventing hearing damage due to prolonged exposure to high sound levels, which have become much more standardized in recent years. This tutorial will address the unique challenges faced by small music venues, especially houses of worship, which often operate under tighter budgets and where user-friendly permanent solutions are key to long term success. The WHO guidelines emphasize regular monitoring of sound levels, provision of adequate hearing protection, and educating both patrons and staff about the risks of hearing loss and the measures that can be taken to mitigate these risks. This workshop will provide a detailed, practical, and cost-effective roadmap for small venues to implement these recommendations without compromising on the quality of the musical experience. We will walk through interpreting the WHO and AES hearing health standards for live venues, and making sense of large technical documents to communicate to volunteers and newer employees, as well as outline a real world tested solution to implementing hearing health monitoring. Another area of focus will be a brief explanation of how human hearing works, and how it can be damaged. The tutorial will demonstrate how to collect and interpret data, and practical everyman solutions to adapt to hearing health challenges as they arise. Another critical aspect of the tutorial will be on hearing protection strategies. Small music venues can provide disposable earplugs to patrons and staff at a minimal cost or invest in reusable earplugs that offer better sound quality while protecting hearing. The tutorial will discuss the different types of earplugs available, their cost, and how to encourage their use among patrons without detracting from the concert experience. Education is a cornerstone of the WHO guidelines, and this tutorial will explore effective ways to raise awareness about hearing health. This includes training staff to recognize the signs of excessive sound exposure and understand the importance of hearing protection, as well as developing clear and engaging signage and informational materials for patrons. By the end of the workshop, attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of how to implement a hearing health monitoring system in their venues that is both practical and affordable, aligned with the WHO guidelines, and tailored to the unique needs of small music venues. They will leave equipped with actionable strategies, practical tools, and a network of peers committed to promoting hearing health in the music community. This tutorial not only aims to protect the hearing of patrons and staff but also to enhance the overall quality of the live music experience by fostering a safer and more aware listening environment.
