Don't breach health and safety laws when playing live

Musicians often enjoy cranking up the volume when they take to the stage.

But while it can be tempting to turn the guitar amps up to 11, you have to bear in mind health and safety legislation.

Indeed, some venues are so conscious of the need to limit the noise that they have a traffic light system linked to their PAs.

These tell the band when they are getting a bit too loud, and if they cross a certain threshold the sound will cut out completely.

The current rules are designed to ensure that live music can be enjoyed by the audience and staff, but in a safe way.

Employees at the venue may otherwise be able to claim for damages if their hearing suffers.

Owners of music establishments also want to be good neighbours, so keeping a lid on the volume can help them enjoy cordial relations with local residents and businesses.

Bands must be aware of this when they set up their equipment and remember that they are not free to do as they please when it comes to setting the volume controls.

Product category: Guitars, Drums, Pianos, Synthesizers