L-Acoustics Partners with HELA for Responsible Sound Design L-Acoustics Partners with HELA for Responsible Sound Design...
At L-Acoustics, we believe that exceptional sound design at live events can coexist with safe and healthy listening. As demand for louder and more dynamic performances increases, so do the risks to hearing and the impact of noise pollution. This is where Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance (HELA) comes into play.
HELA is a forward-thinking global initiative comprising industrial, academic, and healthcare practitioners and organizations dedicated to creating safer and more enjoyable live sound environments by promoting responsible sound management practices. Essentially, HELA aims to safeguard the hearing health of audiences, staff, and surrounding communities without compromising sound quality.
As a founding partner of HELA, we bring our extensive expertise in professional audio solutions to the forefront of this mission. Known globally for our pioneering sound systems used in venues and festivals worldwide, we’re deeply committed to innovation not just in performance, but also in sustainability, as well as health and well-being.
A Shared Mission for Health and Sound
Subsequently, the HELA initiative was established to address the growing need for awareness and education around excessive volume exposure and responsible sound design in live sound events. Its certification program is designed for all stakeholders involved in live sound events. This includes sound engineers, venue staff, promoters, and even audience members. Ensuring an inclusive approach to sound safety and security is a crucial part of HELA’s mission.
HELA focuses on:
- Increasing understanding of the human auditory system and the risks associated with prolonged or high-decibel exposure
- Promoting the responsible design and operation of sound systems within various types of venues
- Implementing effective noise control strategies to limit the impact on surrounding communities
- Advocating for the use of personal and professional hearing protection
These goals align with L-Acoustics’ long-standing commitment to quality and safety, innovation, and social responsibility. Our involvement with HELA ensures that our technologies not only deliver impeccable sound but also support healthier and safer listening environments.
Global Standards and Research for Sound Design and Safe Listening
Another key aspect of HELA is its alignment with the WHO Global Standard on Safe Listening Venues and Events. This regulatory framework was developed as part of the WHO’s Make Listening Safe initiative.
Keeping in line with HELA’s goals for responsible sound design, we’ve leveraged our design expertise to develop sound systems and venue layouts that minimize acoustic spillover while preserving clarity and impact through our Environmental System Design (ESD).
L-Acoustics ESD utilizes Soundvision for sound propagation modeling and detailed documentation, thereby optimizing sound quality for the audience. All while minimizing noise for residents, facilitating regulatory compliance, and fostering positive community relations.
Education as a Catalyst for Change
Our involvement in HELA goes beyond advocacy; it’s rooted in deep scientific and technical contributions. We’re committed to sharing scientific knowledge from our industry and are a leading sponsor and organizer of the 3rd AES International Acoustics and Sound Reinforcement Conference in 2024. A core pillar of our involvement in HELA is our dedication to education, as evidenced by our contributions to various published papers and courses on noise pollution and auditory health. This educational outreach ensures that the research and principles of HELA are not confined to academic circles; they are disseminated directly to the people who can implement them daily.
HELA was also a central theme at our very first L-Acoustics Connect conference. Core members behind the HELA initiative, Adam Hill and Jon Burton from the University of Derby, presented their work during this educational and comprehensive conference.
HELA initiative presentation.
Through foundational research, collaboration with global health organizations, and a deep-seated commitment to education, L-Acoustics and our partnering stakeholders ensure HELA is helping to usher in a new era of live sound. One where sonic excellence and hearing safety come together harmoniously, allowing the magic of live music to be universally enjoyed.
Learn more about how you can get your venue or event certified here: www.helainitiative.com