AUDIOMETRIC TESTING
LISTEN UP! NEW RULES
TO PROTECT WORKERS' HEARING
This year, Safe Work Australia has mandated regular hearing tests and audiometric assessments for workers exposed to excessive noise. This crucial initiative aims to protect workers from the often silent, but devastating, effects of long-term noise exposure. In noisy work environments, the risk of hearing loss is a daily reality, with approximately one in five workers affected over time.
Mandatory hearing tests mean early detection of hearing impairment, allowing for timely intervention and protective measures. For workers, this preserves their ability to work effectively and maintain their overall well-being. For companies, healthier employees translate to higher productivity, reduced absenteeism, and lower compensation claims, all while demonstrating a commitment to worker health and safety.
Safe Work Australia’s mandate not only complies with regulations but also promotes a safer, more supportive workplace. It ensures that progress and productivity do not come at the cost of workers’ hearing health, reflecting a profound commitment to protecting and preserving the well-being of every worker.
AUDIOMETRIC TESTING
Audiometric assessments or hearing tests measure your ability to hear different sounds, pitches or frequencies. It’s a painless, non-invasive hearing test that assesses whether or not you’re hearing correctly.
Clause 58 – Audiometric Testing of the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017 came into effect from the 1st of January 2024. In simple terms, if you are frequently wearing hearing protection as a control measure for excessive noise you must undergo audiometric testing. For all new workers, a baseline hearing test must be completed within three months of commencing work.
At SafetyCo we conduct the most common method of hearing tests – a pure tone audiometry.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AUDIOMETRIC ASSESSMENTS FAQS
If you’re still unsure about what is involved or what you need to do to prepare, we have more information for you below.
Please have a read through everything and if there is still anything that you’re unsure about, get in touch with us via email or give us a call.
In 2022, the NSW Government conducted a review of Clause 58 of the WHS Regulation 2017. Clause 58 sets out audiometric testing requirements for employers in NSW. As part of the review, a public consultation forum was created to seek feedback on Clause 58. The results of the review and consultation supported audiometric testing of workers by their employer. Clause 58 – Audiometric testing will now become law, commencing 1 January 2024.
It’s recommended that workers in high-noise environments undergo hearing tests annually. This frequency helps monitor any changes in hearing ability and ensures that any hearing protection being used is effective.
A hearing test typically involves pure-tone audiometry assessment that tests your ability to hear different pitches and tones.
A standard hearing test usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific assessments required and the individual’s needs.
Avoid exposure to loud noises for at least 24 hours before the test, as this can temporarily affect your hearing. Bring any hearing aids or ear protection devices you use regularly, and inform the examiner of any medications or ear-related issues you have.
If the test indicates hearing loss, you will be recommended to see a GP or an audiologist for further examinations.
Yes, SafetyCo offers on-site hearing tests, bringing our equipment and certified professionals to your location. We would require multiple tests to be booked and confirmed prior to coming onsite along with other requirements needed to conduct the tests effectively. This may include a quiet room or office space away from noise with appropriate power and furniture.
Hearing protection must be worn by workers if hazardous noise cannot be controlled below the exposure standards using higher order controls. If the PCBU requires a worker to frequently use hearing protection (e.g., often or many times) throughout their work shift to minimise the risk of hearing loss from noise that exceeds the exposure standards, the PCBU must provide hearing tests to the worker.
- Early detection of noise induced hearing loss (NIHL)
- Educates workers about their hearing and the importance of protecting it
- Identifies the type of hearing loss, e.g., conductive, or sensorineural
- Assists in identifying non-noise related hearing problems
- Assists in limiting employer liability for hearing loss claims
GET WORK READY
OUR APPROACH TO PPE
We understand that PPE is at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls. Our goal is to make your work safer, not just sell you products. As a solutions first company you can trust that the PPE we DO sell directly to you, our team of experts have personally vetted, meets AS/NZS standards and has been rigorously field tested by our clients.
Whether it’s a cut D glove, a lithium-ion battery fire extinguisher, or a P3 full face respirator, every single item has been the right product for a specific purpose. If you know exactly what you need – great, shop away. If you don’t, reach out to us and we’ll guide you through.
BOOK YOUR
HEARING TEST
EXPRESS BOOKING
Respiratory Fit Test
Quantitative Fit Test | Single
$
95
ex GST
-
Includes Disposable P2
AS/NZS 1716:2012 Mask -
Fit Checking Training
-
Maintenance & Care Training
For Reusable Respirators -
Fit Test Report (PDF Format)
Healthcare Fit Test
2x Respirator Fit Test | Student Discount
$
115
ex GST
-
Includes 2x Disposable
AS/NZS 1716:2012 P2 Masks
With ARTG Numbers -
Fit Checking Training
-
2x Fit Test Reports
(PDF Format)
Hearing Test
Audiometric Assessment | Single
$
75
ex GST
-
Testing In Accordance
With AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 -
Audiometric Case
History -
Audiometric Test Report
(PDF Format)
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