Thanks to our friends at ACFA for this very important reminder about SafeWork NSW’s requirements for audiometric testing from 1st Jan 2024.
Clause 58 – Audiometric Testing was introduced under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017 following an extensive period of public consultation throughout 2022 and applies to all businesses who require workers to frequently use hearing protection as a control measure for noise that exceeds the exposure standard.
For new workers, a baseline hearing test must be completed within three months of commencing their employment with follow up monitoring hearing tests required at least every two years during their employment.
For all workers, a follow-up monitoring hearing test is required at least every two years during their employment.
Employers are responsible for organising and paying for hearing tests for their workers – an appointment can be made at any audiology clinic and no doctor’s referral is required. The results of all hearing tests should be shared immediately with employees and the documentation kept confidentially in a secure location and provided to the employee when they finish their employment.
The hearing tests establish a base line which allows for the early detection of hearing loss and enables measures to be put in place to prevent further hearing loss. It also helps businesses assess the effectiveness of workplace noise controls.
Employers should identify and assess noise sources within their workplace to determine if there is a risk of hearing loss to workers and apply risk controls which eliminate or minimise the risk of hearing loss.
ACFA has a range of resources for members to help navigate this new legislation which are available through the member portal or by contacting membership@acfa.net.au or by talking to one of ACFA’s Workplace Advice Team Members on 1300 342 248.
For more information visit acfa.net.au/
