In Episode 297, it’s all about safe listening levels, hearing protection and more, as Sean and Andy talk to three of the folks behind the Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance Initiative (HELA) about all things loud (but not too loud)! This episode is sponsored by Allen & Heath and RCF.

Returning guest Laura Sinnott, AuD is joined by Jon Burton and Jos Mulder to explain where HELA came from, its purpose, and much more. From World Health Organization standards for live event audio to which generic fit earplugs to recommend to friends, there’s a ton of great info in this jam-packed hour.

Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance is a non-profit group of industry and academic specialists in audio, acoustics, and more, offering training and certification about the benefits of responsible sound management.

Created in response to research conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Audio Engineering Society (AES), and hosted by the Electro-Acoustics Research Lab (EARLab), University of Derby, UK, HELA offers training and certification for everyone involved in the live event sector, from bar managers and security staff to sound technicians and concert promoters. It’s designed to provide a clear understanding of the benefits of having a responsible sound management plan for audiences, staff and neighbors.

HELA supports venues of all sizes, from grassroots to large-scale events, in creating positive relationships with their audiences as well as surrounding communities. Topics covered include the Fundamentals Of Sound, Noise Pollution, Sound Level Limits, Personal Hearing Protection, Management & Communication, Audience Expectations, Venue Design and more.

Episode Links:
Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance Initiative (HELA) FAQs
WHO Global Standard For Safe Listening Venues & Events
ASI Audio 3DME Active-Ambient Technology
Etymotic Research ER20XS Earplugs
Curvd Everyday Earplugs
Laura Sinnott, AuD: Choosing Earplugs, Loop Earplugs Review, Curvd Earplugs Review
STN Episode 177: Hearing Health Matters
STN Episode 152: Dr. Heather Malyuk, Soundcheck Audiology – “All Ears Are Famous”
Episode 297 Transcript

AES Papers:
Education and Certification in Sound Pressure Level Measurement, Monitoring and Management at Entertainment Events
Sound Level Monitoring at Live Events, Part 1– Live Dynamic Range
Sound Level Monitoring at Live Events, Part 2 — Regulations, Practices, and Preferences
Sound Level Monitoring at Live Events, Part 3 — Improved Tools and Procedures