Hearing Awareness Scheme

In collaboration with UCL Ear Institute

Musicians and non-musicians alike are susceptible to work-related hearing damage from sound. Unlike other professions, however, the sound musicians create is not a by-product of their work - it is their product.

The RCM has formed a working group on hearing protection that is helping to shape how the College complies with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations and how it informs resident musicians on how to protect and preserve their hearing. Annual seminars are provided on noise and hearing protection, and workshops are run in conjunction with RCM performance projects,   in which measured sound levels are fed back to performers and the positive and negative effects of sound shields, stage layouts, and methods of hearing protection are discussed. In addition,  the RCM runs a successful hearing awareness scheme, offering a comprehensive range of hearing tests to all students and staff, as outlined below. 

 

2010/11 Student Scheme

The 2010/11 student awareness scheme (including hearing tests) will run throughout the RCM's Autumn term.

Further information and sign-up sheets for RCM students will be available at the Health Seminar on 24 September and thereafter in the Student Services Office (Room 212).

Delivered in association with the Ear Institute, University College London.

 

Staff Hearing Protection Policy

Hearing tests (i.e. standard audiograms) are offered on an annual basis to any RCM employee who wishes to be tested. In order to arrange a hearing test, members of staff should contact an audiological clinic of their choice, settle the bill directly with the clinic, and then forward the receipt and expenses claim form to the Human Resources department. Staff will be reimbursed by the College up to a maximum amount (contact the HR department on 020 7591 4390 or 020 7591 4784 to discuss).

If, as a result of the consultation, further tests or special hearing protection is recommended for work carried out specifically at the RCM, then an additional contribution of £50 will be made toward these costs. In certain circumstances, where a staff member is identified as being at high risk due to their work at the College, further additional funding may be available.