Audiometry Testing
Audiometry is a critical health surveillance screening method used to detect the early signs of hearing damage caused by prolonged exposure to high noise levels in the workplace. This simple yet effective test helps identify changes in hearing ability before they become significant, allowing for early intervention and preventative measures to protect employees from long-term hearing loss.
About audiometry testing
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations (2005) require employers to minimise the risk of noise exposure in the workplace, which can arise from machinery, tools, equipment, or the environment.
The regulations aim to protect workers from excessive noise that can lead to hearing loss and/or tinnitus, which can significantly affect an individual’s health and well-being.
Employers must conduct a workplace risk assessment to evaluate noise levels, take steps to reduce exposure, and provide employees with appropriate personal hearing protection.
What is audiometry testing?
Audiometry begins with completing a health questionnaire to assess any previous hearing-related issues and potential past noise exposure. If necessary, an examination of the ear canal will be conducted using an otoscope.
Our trained clinicians will then explain the hearing test process, which is typically carried out in a quiet room at your workplace or, if required, in a soundproof booth located in one of our mobile occupational health units or clinics.
During the audiometry test, you will wear specialist headphones connected to an audiometer, which generates sounds at specific frequencies and gradually decreasing volumes (amplitude) to assess your ability to hear them.
Audiometry Testing FAQs
Do I have to participate in audiometry health surveillance (HS)?
Health surveillance is a legal requirement, and both employers and employees must comply with it, which may include annual assessments if necessary. If you choose not to participate in health surveillance, your employer may be required to remove you from activities that could potentially cause harm to your hearing.
Am I required to wear hearing protection?
If the noise level is between 80dB(A) and 84dB(A), suitable hearing protection should be provided or made available for use if necessary. At noise levels of 85dB(A) or higher, employers must provide appropriate hearing protection. You should only wear the hearing protection provided by your employer, which is suitable for the specific noise level you are exposed to. Over-protection can be hazardous, as it may hinder your ability to communicate with colleagues or hear important audible warnings.
Why do I need to do an audiometry test?
The need for audiometry health surveillance depends on the industry you work in, as well as the findings of your workplace risk assessment and method statement (RAMS) regarding potential noise exposure. If your role involves a risk of hearing damage due to workplace noise, you may be required to undergo periodic audiometry testing.
Audiometry is a health surveillance screening method designed to detect early signs of hearing damage caused by noise exposure. It helps clinicians identify noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), which typically affects frequencies between 3000 – 6000Hz (3 - 6kHz). If any signs of NIHL are detected, recommendations can be made to your employer to prevent further deterioration.
If you have been exposed to excessive noise before your audiometry test, you may experience a temporary threshold shift (TTS)—a short-term reduction in hearing ability. This can happen after exposure to loud environments such as concerts, shooting ranges, or working with noisy machinery without hearing protection. In such cases, it may be necessary to repeat the test at a later date to confirm your accurate hearing status.
Explore our related services
As well as providing audiometry health surveillance tests for your employees, we also have a variety of related services that will benefit your business and help you to stay within legal requirements. Find out more about all the services below.
Client Testimonials
From fast turnaround times to bespoke support, businesses across a variety of industries consistently benefit from our comprehensive occupational health services. Have a look at our client testimonials to find out more.
If you want more information on audiometry testing, call our team or contact us today.