Hearing protection for music and concerts

In short: Loud music can permanently damage hearing, from about 85 dB with prolonged exposure. Ear protection, breaks and moderate headphone volume protect against hearing loss and tinnitus.

In more detail: The hair cells in the inner ear do not regrow. Damage is mostly irreversible and adds up (schall-und-dezibel).

In detail

• Concerts and clubs: Levels of 100 dB and more are common. Filtered ear protection (concert plugs) attenuates evenly and keeps sound quality.
• Headphones: The 60/60 rule: at most 60% of maximum volume, at most 60 minutes at a time.
• Warning signs: Ringing or hiss after a concert, muffled hearing. Let the ears rest.
• Tinnitus: Persistent ear noises; with sudden hearing loss or tinnitus see an ENT doctor at once.
• Distance: Do not stand directly in front of loudspeakers.
• Musicians: Protection also makes sense when practising and rehearsing in small rooms.
• Law: At the workplace protection duties apply from 80 dB(A).