HELA, or the Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance Certification, champions safer and more enjoyable live music events. The aim is to train not only sound technicians, but everyone involved in a live event (from bar managers to promoters), enhancing their knowledge on managing and monitoring loud sounds responsibly.
HELA’s UK partner is the Night Time Industry Association’s Listen for Life (LFL) campaign. HELA provides the educational element of the LFL Charter. If you’re a venue or individual working within the music or entertainment industry, signing up for the LFL Charter (it’s free) allows you access to all the other benefits the initiative provides in addition to HELA Certification.
HELA Certification covers the following 8 areas:
Recent publications by the Audio Engineering Society and the World Health Organization reveal significant variances in sound-level management practices and attitudes across the globe. Although both publications outline currently accepted best practices, it is unreasonable to expect key stakeholders within live events including, but not limited to, live sound engineers, venue management, musicians, acoustical consultants, event promoters, equipment manufacturers, booking agents, and educators (at large) to read and understand these documents (which both exceed 100 pages).
HELA grew out of work by the Audio Engineering Society’s Technical Committee on Acoustics and Sound Reinforcement. In the end, 10 subject area experts from across the globe worked to develop the course content and assessment, which has culminated in what you see today: HELA Core and HELA Complete. The content was critically reviewed by key organizations and individuals and was supported by HELA’s Founding Members, organisations who have contributed to the development costs of the certification and will serve to steer the course content and further activities into the future.
No, HELA is not legally binding, as it is a certification promoting current best practices. As laws and regulations differ across the globe, it would be impossible for HELA to cover all relevant legislation. Similarly, due to the vast number of live venues and events, it would be impossible for HELA to monitor all activities across HELA-certified venues, events and individuals. HELA should be seen as important professional development and something to steer your decisions at work when it comes to sound management and hearing health. We aren’t the noise police – we’re here to help you achieve the best possible live event experiences!
No, those of us who have designed HELA love live music events, many of us working at and enjoying ‘loud’ shows. However, HELA sets out a comprehensive approach to sound management including areas such as venue layout, sound system design, stage management, hearing protection, noise pollution control, and effective communication techniques, that can help you realise the show you and your stakeholders want whilst adopting responsible policies. Ideally, the advice to “turn it down” should only be part of a wider proactive strategy and clear sound management plan.
HELA Complete is designed for those working in technical areas or management. It provides you with the necessary training related to responsible sound management, allowing you to take leading roles in venues and at events to facilitate safe listening environments. The training takes approximately 3 1/2 hours to complete. Upon successful completion, you will be HELA Certified for 5 years.
HELA Core is designed for non-technical or non-managerial staff members at venues or events. It will bring you up to speed, allowing you to appreciate the importance of responsible sound management and how you can contribute to a safe listening environment when you're at work. The training takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and will enable your place of work to become or remain HELA Certified.
Please refer to the University of Derby short online course cancellation policy here: Cancellation policy for CPD and short courses - University of Derby
Individuals (for a 5-year certification):
Organizations (annual, based on number of staff):
HELA offers a flexible online course, enabling participants to learn at their own convenience and pace.
HELA Certification (either for an individual or a venue/event) showcases a dedication to superior audience experiences while fostering respect for the local community. Let your events stand out as beacons of professionalism and excellence.
Best practices in sound management are constantly evolving as we learn more about the relevant areas, largely driven by work from organizations such as the Audio Engineering Society and the World Health Organization.
Individuals:
Organizations:
We will send you reminder emails starting 6 months in advance of your certification expiring.
HELA certification remains valid for five years, adapting to the continuously evolving industry best-practices.
Embracing HELA certification shows your dedication towards audience experiences and respect for the local community surrounding your venue.
