Hearing Tests and Audiometry
Where there is noise, there is often a legal requirement to provide hearing protection and health surveillance. In the workplace, employers must carry out a noise risk assessment and, where risk exists, provide hearing tests under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. These steps help prevent noise-induced hearing loss, detect issues early, and provide assurance that current control measures remain effective.
Why hearing tests matter at work
Regular hearing tests reduce risk from ongoing noise exposure and help stop deterioration before it becomes permanent. They also give employers evidence that controls such as engineering measures, safe systems of work and hearing protection are working as intended.
When do I need hearing tests and audiometry?
A hearing test forms part of your control measures when a noise risk assessment identifies exposure. In practice, testing is required when:
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Workplace noise exceeds the upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A).
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An employee has a predisposed risk to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).
What Global OHS can do
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Undertake hearing tests on site or at our office.
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Provide confidential data management and reporting to employee and employer, with employee consent.
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Offer pre-employment baseline testing and repeat testing at two to three yearly intervals.
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Educate employees at the time of testing and store medical records securely in line with statutory requirements (40 years).
Hearing level calculation: what happens during the test
The hearing test is simple and non-invasive. We use equipment calibrated annually, and the assessment typically takes no longer than 15 minutes:
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The employee wears noise-cancelling headphones and holds a response button.
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The practitioner plays tones at different frequencies and volumes.
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The employee presses the button when a sound is heard.
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The assessment ends and the hearing level is calculated.
Hearing test categories
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CAT 1: Normal hearing for age and gender.
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CAT 2: Normal for age and gender, approaching lower acceptable limits.
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CAT 3: Below expected standard for age and gender; referral recommended and retest in one year (hearing PPE imperative).
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CAT 4: A comparison with a previous result; this does not necessarily indicate a poor outcome.
After testing, the technician discusses results with the employee. Some organisations include hearing tests annually as part of a wider health surveillance programme aligned with company policies and procedures.
Assessment locations
We offer medicals at our Burgess Hill office most Fridays. Alternatively, for multiple employees, we can attend your site or office.
Send us your requirement today to arrange hearing tests and audiometry that protect your people and keep you compliant.
