Hearing test requirements for NSW workers
The NSW Government has approved the commencement of Clause 58 – Audiometric Testing under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017 from 1 January 2024. This comes following an extensive period of public consultation in 2022.
On this page
- What this means for your business
- What is a hearing test (audiometry)
- Business responsibilities after a hearing test
- Resources to help you prepare
- Your questions answered
What this means for your business
If your business requires workers to frequently use hearing protection as a control measure for noise that exceeds the exposure standard, you must provide hearing tests for workers. The person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must organise and pay for the hearing test.
For new workers, a baseline hearing test must be completed within three months of commencing their employment. The worker must then get a follow-up monitoring hearing test at least every two years during their employment.
For existing workers employed before 01 January 2024, the PCBU must ensure that hearing tests are conducted before 01 January 2026.
More frequent hearing tests may be required for workers exposed to high, average noise levels throughout their work shift, (e.g., ≥ 100dB(A)).
Making an appointment
The PCBU can make a hearing test appointment at any audiology clinic in their local area. For help finding an audiology clinic in your area, contact Audiology Australia by calling (03) 9940 3900 or visiting the website.
A doctor’s referral is not required when making an appointment for a hearing test. Workers should be referred to a doctor if they experience permanent threshold shifts in their hearing. A doctor can help to determine the cause of hearing loss and potential treatment options.
Find information about business responsibilities after a hearing test below.
What is a hearing test (audiometry)
Hearing tests are a painless, non-invasive test that measures a person’s ability to hear sound. The most common hearing test is pure tone audiometry which measures the softest sound a person can hear across a range of different frequencies.
The worker responds to each frequency by pressing a button. The softest volume the worker hears across the range of frequencies determines the worker’s hearing threshold.
A baseline (reference) hearing test establishes a worker's true hearing status before starting their employment. Baseline hearing tests should be completed before workers are exposed to hazardous noise at the workplace.
A monitoring hearing test must be completed at least every two years during the workers employment. Results are compared to the workers baseline test to assess any change in the degree of hearing. Monitoring hearing tests should be performed a few hours into the workers shift to identify the presence of temporary threshold shifts in workers hearing.
Who performs a hearing test
A hearing test must be performed by a competent person (e.g., audiologist) having acquired the necessary level of training and experience to perform the test, interpret the results and present them in a manner that enables persons at the workplace to make appropriate decisions. Hearing tests must be conducted using the procedures outlined in AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 – Occupational Noise Management – Part 4: Auditory assessment.
What to expect during a hearing test
There are no special requirements for workers when preparing for a hearing test. If performing a hearing test for the first time, the audiologist will ask a series of questions to identify a person’s history with noise exposure during their employment and personal lives.
An ear examination will be performed before the hearing test, using an otoscope to check for any physical damage or obstructions (e.g., ear wax) within the ear that may affect the hearing test.
Hearing test results
Results are given to workers immediately after the hearing test, including an explanation of what the results mean. Subtle improvements or deterioration may be experienced when performing monitoring hearing tests during the workers employment. These shifts may not have any clinical significance.
Threshold shifts that do have clinical significance are called significant threshold shifts as they can mean a temporary or permanent loss in hearing.
A temporary threshold shift is a short-term shift in a worker’s hearing threshold. These usually occur due to exposure to loud noise and will gradually recover when the affected person spends time in a quiet place.
Where a temporary threshold shift has been identified, a re-test must be completed on another day, after 16 hours in quiet conditions to determine if the threshold shift is permanent.
A permanent threshold shift is a permanent shift in a worker’s hearing threshold resulting in hearing loss. Permanent hearing loss may occur suddenly or develop over time. Workers should be referred to a physician to diagnose the cause of hearing loss and possible treatment options.
Business responsibilities after a hearing test
Record keeping
The PCBU must ensure that all hearing test reports, including any updated baseline hearing tests, are kept as confidential documents. Employees should get a copy of their hearing test reports when their employment ends.
If a threshold shift or tinnitus is reported
When a significant permanent threshold shift is detected, or a diagnosis of tinnitus, the PCBU must review noise control measures at the workplace to ensure they remain effective in reducing the risk of further hearing impairment. Actions may include:
- review worker tasks to identify changes that may have caused an increase in noise exposure
- ensure higher order controls, e.g., isolation, engineering, are used where reasonably practicable to minimise worker exposure to noise
- substitute ototoxic chemicals for less hazardous chemicals or review workplace controls to ensure they remain effective in eliminating the risk of inhalation, absorption, and ingestion
- ensure hearing protectors worn by workers are adequate for the level of noise exposure
- retrain workers to ensure hearing protectors are fitted and worn correctly
- ensure workers wear hearing protection consistently throughout their work shift.
If a worker’s hearing loss interferes with the safe performance of their work, the PCBU should ensure that all reasonably practicable steps are taken to modify the work environment, including:
- volume control on equipment such as telephones
- acoustically treated meeting areas with low noise and low sound reflections
- supplementary visual warning signals, or
- alternative work for the worker if other measures do not remedy the situation.
Resources to help you prepare
These resources are designed to help you prepare and communicate the new hearing test requirements in NSW.
Fact sheet: New hearing test requirements for NSW employers and workers (PDF, 386.92 KB)
This fact sheet is also available in:
- Arabic (PDF, 132.74 KB)
- Chinese (Simplified) (PDF, 184.45 KB)
- Chinese (Traditional) (PDF, 305.86 KB)
- Greek (PDF, 292.59 KB)
- Italian (PDF, 141.35 KB)
- Korean (PDF, 282.82 KB)
- Punjabi (PDF, 344.83 KB)
- Spanish (PDF, 146.8 KB)
- Urdu (PDF, 632.22 KB)
- Vietnamese (PDF, 1112.93 KB)
Poster: New hearing test requirements for NSW employers and workers (PDF, 430.18 KB)
For further guidance call 13 10 50.
Your questions answered
Answers to frequently asked questions about new hearing test requirements for NSW workers.
Why does audiometric (hearing) testing have to be done?
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.
Do I need to do a noise assessment?
Yes. The person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must make a reasonable attempt to assess the risk of noise at the workplace.
For complex workplaces where there are many or varied noise sources, or where workers move in and out of noisy areas, a competent person should complete a noise assessment e.g. an occupational hygienist.
For simpler workplaces where there is one noisy work activity or a single noisy machine, the PCBU can engage the machines manufacturer to provide information on noise levels.
Noise information provided by the manufacturer can then be applied to the guidance outlined in Appendix D – Ready Reckoner of the NSW Code of Practice – Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work (PDF, 1377.23 KB).
Should my workplace try eliminating or minimising noise at the source?
Yes. If a noise assessment identifies that workers have exceeded the noise exposure standards, the PCBU must try to eliminate the risk of hearing loss.
Where it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate, the PCBU must minimise the risk by applying the hierarchy of controls outlined under Part 3.1 of the WHS Regulation 2017.
Where higher order controls e.g., engineering or isolation, have been applied, but the risk of noise above the exposure standards remains, the PCBU must also apply lower order controls e.g., administrative or hearing protection, to protect the worker from hearing loss.
Find further information about noise controls at Hazardous noise and hearing loss at work: the facts and the NSW Code of Practice – Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work (PDF, 1377.23 KB).
What is the meaning of frequently in the context of clause 58?
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.
Do I need to consult with workers about hearing tests?
Yes. Under section 47 of the WHS Act 2011, the PCBU must consult with their workers on matters relating to their work health or safety.
What are the benefits of hearing tests?
The benefits of a hearing tests include:
- 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
Are all workers required to be tested?
No, only workers who are frequently required by the PCBU to wear hearing protection as a control measure where noise exceeds the exposure standard.
How much does an audiometric test cost?
The cost of a hearing test will vary depending on the service provider. SafeWork NSW recommends the PCBU make several enquiries with competent, qualified service providers to ensure they find an affordable option.
What if noise exposure is indirect or intermittent?
The PCBU must make a reasonable attempt to assess whether exposure to indirect or intermittent noise will result in noise exposures that will exceed the exposure standards.
Do I have to attend a certain audiologist?
The PCBU must consult with their workers on matters relating to their work health or safety. Consultation may include discussion about which audiologists provide audiometric testing services to workers.
The WHS Act requires workers to follow any reasonable instruction given by the PCBU, such as attending a certain audiologist.
Am I required to take a hearing test if my employer has asked me to do so?
The PCBU has a duty to provide hearing tests to workers who frequently wear hearing protection to control noise above the noise exposure standards. If a worker refuses to take part, the PCBU should:
- consult with the worker to outline the benefits of a hearing test
- ensure the process of having a hearing test is easy, and
- provide interpreters for the worker if English is not their first language.
Workers have a duty under the WHS Act to comply and cooperate with any reasonable policy or procedure the PCBU gives relating to health of safety at the workplace.
What should I do if my employer refuses to provide me with an audiometric test?
Clause 58 places a legal duty on the PCBU to provide hearing tests for workers who frequently wear hearing protection to control noise exposure above the exposure standard. If the PCBU fails to comply, regulatory action may be taken.
If the issue has not been resolved after reasonable discussion, the worker or PCBU can request SafeWork NSW attend the workplace and resolve the issue. Contact SafeWork NSW by phone on 13 10 50 or email at [email protected].
Would a pre-employment medical that includes audiometric testing satisfy the requirements of clause 58?
Yes, a pre-employment medical that includes an audiometric test will satisfy the requirements of clause 58(2)(a), that a worker must be provided an audiometric test within three (3) months of commencing work. The PCBU must then ensure the worker is provided with follow-up hearing tests at least every two years.
If a PCBU is currently conducting hearing tests, do they need to repeat their hearing tests?
No, as long as the PCBUs existing hearing test program is consistent with guidance in the NSW Code of Practice – Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work (PDF, 1377.23 KB).
Will audiometric testing increase my workers compensation premiums and costs?
Sending a worker for an audiometric test will not increase your workers compensation premiums. It may impact your premium if a claim for permanent hearing loss is made.
Find more information about what is in a premium on the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) website.
What if workers are being exposed to loud noise outside of the workplace?
A questionnaire forms part of the hearing test. The audiologist will ask the worker a series of questions including:
- a history of their employment
- personal or recreational activities that may have exposed the worker to noise.
If a doctor or specialist identifies permanent hearing loss, they will discuss the worker’s employment and personal or recreational history. Identifying the probable cause of hearing loss is critical to ensure controls are put in place to reduce further hearing loss.
How should a PCBU manage medical-in-confidence records?
The PCBU must ensure that all hearing test reports, including any updated baseline hearing tests, are kept as confidential documents.
Employees should get a copy of their hearing test reports when their employment ends. Legislative requirements are outlined in the Health Records and Information Privacy Act and the State Records Act.
Can a worker claim workers compensation?
Workers sustaining permanent hearing loss may be entitled to workers compensation. Workers concerned about hearing loss should consult their doctor to determine appropriate assessment and treatment needs.
Find information about hearing impairment claims at the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) website.
Where can I find out more?
For more information, contact SafeWork NSW by calling 13 10 50 or email [email protected].
Related information
- WHS Act 2011 (NSW), section 19 – Primary Duty of Care
- WHS Regulation 2017 (NSW), Part 4.1 – Noise
- Noise at work – SafeWork NSW
- Hearing loss is preventable fact sheet (PDF, 115.1 KB) – SafeWork NSW
- Audiology Australia – visit the website or call (03) 9940 3900