Noise-induced hearing loss remains one of the most common occupational health issue affecting workers across numerous industries. As such, workplace hearing tests, or audiometric testing, remains one of the most important aspects of your overall safety program.
In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 20,000 workplace hearing loss cases occur yearly. And, unfortunately, many of these cases result in permanent hearing loss.
Consequently, providing workers with adequate hearing protection remains of the utmost importance
As an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure the well-being of your employees, including their auditory health.
One effective way to accomplish this is by implementing regular hearing tests in the workplace. These tests offer numerous benefits, both for employees and your organization overall.
Let’s take a look at what audiometric testing is, as well as the benefits it provides for your workers and worksite.
Related Article: Hearing Loss: The Most Common Occupational Illness in Manufacturing
Related Article: Are your employees using proper hearing protection?
What Is Audiometric Testing?
Audiometric testing is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate a person’s hearing ability. It involves the use of specialized equipment, called an audiometer, to measure an individual’s hearing thresholds, or the softest sounds they can hear at different frequencies.
During audiometric testing, the person being tested wears headphones and is presented with a series of tones or speech stimuli at various volumes and frequencies. The individual indicates when they can hear the sound by pressing a button, raising their hand, or giving a verbal response.
The audiometer records the responses, and the results are plotted on an audiogram, which is simply a visual representation of the person’s hearing thresholds. Audiometric testing helps assess both the type and degree of hearing loss. The test results provide valuable information for diagnosis, treatment planning, and the implementation of hearing conservation programs in occupational settings.
See OSHA’s hearing conservation guideline.
See statistics on noise and occupational hearing loss.
Benefits of Conducting Hearing Tests in the Workplace
Regular hearing tests in the workplace enable early detection of hearing loss. This allows for timely intervention and the implementation of preventive measures, promoting employee well-being and reducing the risk of workplace accidents.
The following are some key benefits of conducting regular hearing tests in the workplace:
1. Early Detection and Prevention
One of the primary advantages of hearing tests is their ability to detect hearing loss at an early stage.
Regular screenings allow for the identification of potential hearing problems before they worsen, enabling timely intervention. By detecting hearing loss early, you can implement appropriate preventive measures to minimize further damage.
This proactive approach can significantly reduce the impact on employees’ quality of life and their ability to perform their job effectively.
2. Compliance with Occupational Safety Regulations
Implementing hearing tests in the workplace ensures compliance with occupational safety regulations. Many countries have established specific standards and guidelines regarding noise levels and hearing conservation programs in various industries.
By conducting regular hearing tests, you demonstrate your commitment to meeting these requirements and safeguarding the well-being of your employees.
3. Enhanced Workplace Safety
Good hearing is essential for maintaining workplace safety. Employees need to be able to hear warning signals, alarms, and verbal instructions clearly.
By conducting hearing tests, you can identify any hearing impairments that may hinder employees’ ability to perceive auditory cues. This knowledge enables you to take appropriate measures, such as providing hearing protection devices or modifying work environments to minimize noise exposure.
As a result, you can create a safer work environment, reduce the risk of accidents, and promote overall employee well-being.
4. Increased Job Performance and Productivity
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on job performance and productivity.
Employees with untreated hearing loss may experience difficulties communicating, understanding instructions, or interacting with colleagues and clients. By conducting regular audiometric testing, you can identify and address any hearing-related issues promptly.
This allows for appropriate accommodations, such as providing hearing aids or assistive listening devices, to ensure employees can perform their duties effectively. Improved hearing health leads to enhanced job performance, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.
5. Cost Savings
Addressing hearing loss in the workplace can result in substantial cost savings for employers.
That’s because untreated hearing loss can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and a higher risk of workplace accidents. By implementing regular hearing tests and addressing hearing-related issues early on, you can mitigate these risks.
This proactive approach can save on healthcare costs, insurance claims, and productivity losses associated with untreated hearing loss. Additionally, it demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of your workforce, which can improve employee retention and attract top talent.
6. Employee Well-being and Morale
Investing in hearing tests demonstrates your commitment to your employees’ overall well-being, which can boost morale and job satisfaction.
Employees appreciate when their employer takes steps to ensure their health and safety. Regular screenings and access to appropriate accommodations also foster a positive work environment, promoting employee loyalty and engagement.
OSHA Workplace Hearing Standard
According to OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.95, the workplace hearing test standard, audiometric testing must be made available to all employees exposed to sound level at, or above, the 85 dBA over a TWA period – approximately as loud as a milling machine.
Additionally, protection against the effects of noise exposure shall be provided when the sound levels exceed certain levels (see them here).
Key Takeaways
Implementing regular hearing tests in the workplace offers numerous benefits.
From early detection and prevention of hearing loss to compliance with safety regulations and enhanced workplace safety, these tests are crucial for preserving employees’ auditory health. They also contribute to increased job performance, productivity, and cost savings for the organization.
By prioritizing hearing health, employers can create a safer, healthier, and more productive work environment while fostering employee well-being and morale.
Mobile Audiometric Testing
For audiometric testing, which is required by OSHA, Worksite Medical brings the examinations directly to your worksite. Employers must make audiometric testing available at no cost to all employees who are exposed to an action level of 85 dB or above, measured as an 8-hour TWA.
You can get up to six audio booths and up to 20 exams per hour for efficient testing. Audiometric testing is pure tone air-conducted hearing testing performed in each ear at frequencies of 500, 1K, 2K, 3K, 4K, 6K, and 8K. This sort of testing identifies hearing levels and sensitivity to the exposed sound.
We also provide hearing safety training. And, you never have to send your team members away to a clinic. Get your risk-free quote or schedule your on-site audiometric exams below. Let’s keep your team safe and stay ahead of OSHA inspections together.
Take a virtual tour of our mobile medical units HERE.
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About Worksite Medical
In most cases, OSHA requires medical surveillance testing, and at no cost to employees.
Worksite Medical makes that program easier with mobile medical testing.
We conduct on-site respirator fit tests, as well as audiometric exams, pulmonary function tests and heavy metal lab work, right on your job site. We also keep accurate, easy-to-access medical records for your convenience. You’ll keep your employees at work, and stay ahead of OSHA inspections.
