What Is Audiometric Testing for Employees?

Audiometric testing is a hearing test used to monitor an employee’s hearing over time. It educates them about protecting their hearing from damage since exposure to loud noise for long durations of time can damage the nerve ending in the inner ear. The damage depends upon exposure to harmful noise that can sometimes result in permanent hearing loss.

Why is Audiometric Testing Conducted?

Since noise can be a serious health hazard, prolonged exposure to it can lead to damage to the ear that can lead to permanent hearing loss. Occupational hearing loss happens gradually over time and should be detected early to implement protective measures.  

In workplaces with noisy environments, employers should provide their employees with some hearing protection and try to limit their exposure to noise to somewhat safer levels. Thus, employers must conduct regular audiometric testing for employees who work in an environment with exposure to sound measuring up to 85 decibels or more for a minimum of 8 hours a day. 

The regular comprehensive assessment and monitoring of changes in the hearing ability or the presence of hearing loss in employees help ensure the proper hearing protection for their field of work. 

What Happens During Audiometric Testing?

In audiometric testing, an initial baseline of the employees’ hearing is required to monitor the effect of the noisy environment on their ears. The baseline is measured before or at the beginning of employment in the noisy workspace. 

After calculating the initial baseline of the subject’s hearing, subsequent intermittent testing is conducted. The audiometric testing is calibrated against the ambient noise levels pertaining to the environment that it is being used and is conducted by a qualified audiometrist.

An ear examination is also conducted aside from the audiometric testing to ensure there is no ear infection or other unrelated pathology. If there is a significant change detected in the employee’s hearing ability, the employer is obligated to inform the employee of this fact and provide appropriate measures in order to protect the employee’s hearing.

Audiometric Testing for Employees in Australia

Hearing Aids’ Professionals provide you with methodical risk management at your workplace and ensure complete protection for everyone involved. We gain a thorough assessment of the noise levels of the working environment and give you an accurate audiometric test analysis along with safety gear and functional protective equipment.

Contact us for mobile audiometric testing, pre-employment testing, supply of customized ear plugs and hearing aids and general hearing needs. We provide the best hearing aid services in Australia.