Work with hazardous noise?
Our hearing is a vital part of our well-being and safety during all stages of life. Understanding how well you can hear or if you need support is important.
Hearing loss is a common concern identified by Workplace Health and Safety. Occupational noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common yet preventable occupational diseases, with an estimated more than 1.1 million Australians exposed to hazardous noise in their workplace. In 2020-21, 98% of accepted workers’ compensation claims for deafness were attributed to long-term noise exposure.
New hearing test requirements for NSW workers
From January 1, 2024, Clause 58 of Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017 requires employers in NSW to provide hearing tests (audiometric tests) to workers exposed to hazardous noise and who frequently use hearing protection in the workplace.
Employers must provide employees with audiometry testing:
- Within three months of starting their employment (baseline test),
- and a follow-up test at least every 2 years.
Click here for more information.
Our Audio Test Procedure
Step 1: Preparation
- We’ll provide a questionnaire/consent form for your employee to complete before testing.
- Their current hearing concerns are taken into consideration.
Step 2: Otoscopy
Visual examination of the ear canal using an otoscope may be conducted to check for obstructions or issues in the ear.
Step 3: Pure-Tone Audiometry
- You will be seated in a soundproof booth or quiet room.
- Headphones will be provided.
- You will be presented with a series of pure-tone sounds at various frequencies (measured in Hertz, Hz) and intensities (measured in decibels, dB), to each ear separately.
- You will respond by indicating when you hear a tone, typically by pressing a button, raising a hand, or providing a verbal response.
Step 4: Results
- The audiometric test results will be analysed to determine the individual’s hearing thresholds and any potential hearing loss.
- Results are typically plotted on an audiogram, which is a visual representation of an individual’s hearing abilities.
- A copy of the results will be sent to your employer.
On-site hearing test service available
We understand that your team has a busy schedule, making it challenging to attend appointments. Therefore, our practice now also offers an on-site hearing test service too.
This not only helps you conveniently comply with the new upcoming workplace laws; but also establishes baseline hearing for your new employees before they commence work.
To book an audiogram, please call our Workplace Health Services Team on 02 8865 0633 or email workplacehealth@chmc.com.au
