Audiometric Testing (Hearing Testing)

Audiometric testing, also known as a hearing test, is the industry standard for evaluating and monitoring noise-exposed workers’ hearing. It helps identify changes early to mitigate hearing loss caused by workplace noise exposure. Excessive noise can impair a worker’s ability to hear warning sounds, communicate with others, and can increase the risk of workplace incidents and injuries. High levels of noise can cause permanent damage resulting in hearing loss and other irreversible auditory harm such as tinnitus (ringing in your ears). Occupational audiometric testing is crucial for detecting early signs of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and implementing preventive measures. DriverCheck supports employers in meeting these critical needs by offering comprehensive audiometric testing services, including audiometric testing, aggregate reporting and hearing protection fit testing. Our team helps you stay compliant with occupational health regulations while protecting your workforce from the long-term effects of noise exposure.

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What is Audiometric Testing?

Audiometric testing monitors an employee's hearing. It involves measuring an individual's ability to hear sounds at various frequencies and intensities using an audiometer. The results are plotted on an audiogram, visually representing the person's hearing thresholds across a range of frequencies.

How Audiometric Testing Works

During an audiometric test, individuals wear earphones to listen to pure tones at different frequencies and volumes. They indicate when they can hear each tone, allowing the audiometric technician to determine the quietest volume the person can detect at each frequency. The results are recorded on an audiogram, showing hearing thresholds and aiding in diagnosing hearing loss.

Hearing Conservation Programs

Hearing conservation programs are essential for reducing workers’ exposure to harmful noise levels and mitigating occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL). These programs include:

Detecting the Noise Hazard: Measuring and monitoring noise levels.
Controlling Noise Exposure: Maintaining noise levels below occupational exposure limits (OEL).
Hazard Communication: Posting warning signage in noise-hazard areas.
Hearing Protection Devices: Providing and training workers on the use of hearing protection devices (e.g., earplugs, earmuffs).
Audiometric Testing: Conducting hearing surveillance for noise-exposed workers.
Monitoring the Program’s Performance.

Benefits of Audiometric Testing in the Workplace

Regular audiometric testing is essential for several reasons:

Early Detection of Hearing Loss: Identifying hearing loss early allows employers to prevent further damage, especially in industries with high noise levels.
Compliance with Regulations: Ensures employers meet legal requirements and protect their workforce.
Employee Well-being: Ongoing testing helps maintain employees' overall hearing health by identifying changes over time and demonstrates employer commitment to health and safety.
Improved Workplace Safety: Detecting hearing impairments reduces the risk of accidents.

Audiometric Testing by Location

In several Canadian provinces and territories, a hearing conservation program is specifically required when workplace noise exceeds a certain threshold, known as the occupational exposure limit (OEL). Despite not all provinces/territories having explicit criteria for requiring a hearing conservation program, all employers are obligated to ensure a safe work environment for under Canadian Occupational Health and Safety legislation. This includes taking all reasonable precautions to protect the health and safety of all in the workplace where a known hazard is present.

Hearing Surveillance

Hearing surveillance monitors workers’ noise exposure over time, allowing for early intervention and course correction. It involves audiometry paired with a health, occupational, and social history questionnaire, and possibly an otoscopic examination. Audiometry presents pure tones through earphones to each ear, recording the sound level at which tones are heard on an audiogram. Workers are counseled on the importance of using and maintaining hearing protection devices.

Partner with DriverCheck Today and Protect Your Team’s Hearing

Don’t wait for hearing loss to become a problem. Ensure your workplace is compliant, your employees are protected, and your safety standards are top-tier. DriverCheck provides audiometric testing, aggregate reporting and hearing protection fit testing. Get in touch with us as Sales@DriverCheck.ca or use the form below.