Hearing Protection
I'd be curious to know if he was wearing hearing protection.
I personally never wear hearing protection during the walk around, specifically so I am not limiting one of senses. Hearing a reversing truck has saved me from being squashed.
I hate fighting with the morons at Sydney security who demand that you have hearing protection before they let you onto airside.
Best wishes for the gentleman concerned to make a speedy and full recovery.
Take care out there peoples.