Improving Hearing Protection for Musicians: Testing the Goodear Acoustic Shield

In a collaborative effort between UTS Tech Lab and Symphony Services International, an acoustic test was conducted to assess the efficacy of the Goodear Acoustic Shield in protecting musicians from acoustic shock and hearing loss.

The innovative product, designed for musicians in orchestras, bands and school music ensembles, addresses the pressing concern of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) resulting from prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels. Positioned at the back of the musician’s head, the shield mitigates harmful noise originating from behind.

Challenge

Classical musicians, immersed in performances where noise levels can soar, require effective occupational noise management to preserve their hearing health and prevent NIHL. Traditional solutions like earplugs can compromise sound quality and prove unsuitable for orchestral settings. Meanwhile, conventional hard-surfaced plastic shields and screens, though prevalent, can inadvertently heighten exposure for nearby musicians. 

The Goodear Acoustic Shield, co-designed by the National Acoustic Laboratories, Symphony Services International and UTS Design students, offers a unique solution to the challenges faced by musicians by reducing noise exposure without compromising sound fidelity. Each batch of manufactured shields undergoes rigorous acoustic tests to confirm its sound-absorbent characteristics.

Queensland Symphony Orchestra using Goodear Acoustic Shields

Solution

The acoustic test, conducted within the anechoic chamber at UTS Tech Lab, aimed to evaluate the Goodear Acoustic Shield’s efficacy in diminishing sound pressure levels. Leveraging a smart design that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it, the test results revealed that the shield can provide approximately 9.5 dB of overall A-weighted sound pressure level attenuation, offering substantial protection against harmful noise exposure.

This successful test serves as a testament to the Goodear Acoustic Shield’s reliability in protecting the hearing of orchestral and band performers alike, fostering a safer and healthier environment for musicians and artists.