Love your ears: protecting your hearing at festivals and live music events

Here’s what everyone should know if they’re heading to a festival, gig or concert this summer

Why hearing protection matters

Loud music can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear. Once these cells are damaged, they don’t recover.

The risk of hearing damage increases with:

• Volume - how loud the sound is
• Proximity to speakers - particularly standing close for long periods
• Length of exposure - hours of music, often over several days

Festivals often combine all three. This isn’t about missing out on the experience, it’s about making sure you can continue enjoying live music for years to come.

Practical ways to protect your hearing at festivals

1. Use ear protection

Earplugs are one of the most effective ways to protect your hearing.

• They reduce volume without distorting the music
• Small, discreet and easy to carry
• Suitable for festivals, gigs and clubs

2. Give your ears regular breaks

Your ears need time to recover from loud sound. A helpful guide is the 60/60 rule:

• Listen at no more than 60% volume
• For no more than 60 minutes
• Then take a break

At festivals, this might mean:

• Stepping away from speakers between sets
• Using quieter areas to rest your ears

3. Be mindful of where you stand

Standing even a short distance away from speakers can significantly reduce noise exposure.

• Avoid staying right at the front for prolonged periods
• Move around rather than staying in one loud spot

4. Watch for warning signs

Ringing, buzzing or muffled hearing after a gig are signs your ears have been overworked.
Repeated episodes increase the risk of permanent hearing damage, so they shouldn’t be ignored.

 

What to do if you notice a change in your hearing

If you notice any changes in your hearing, get it checked.

• Take our free online hearing test for an early indication of how well you hear.  It’s quick and easy with immediate results.