Audiometric Testing for the Entertainment Industry: The WHS Frontier

Emerging WHS Compliance Area

Entertainment industry hearing health is an emerging WHS compliance area. Safe Work Australia recognizes that music industry workers face significant NIHL risk, yet compliance lags other high-risk sectors.

Entertainment Noise Profile

  • Music venues: 100-115 dB sustained
  • Concert production: 110-120 dB at mixing position
  • DJ booth: 105-115 dB
  • Film production: 85-100 dB depending on set activity
  • Sports venues: 85-100 dB crowd noise

Who Is Covered?

  • Venue staff: Bar staff, door staff, floor staff regularly exposed
  • Technical crew: Sound engineers, lighting technicians, riggers
  • Performers: Musicians, DJs recognized increasingly as workers

Dose Relationship

4 hours at 100 dB = same as 8 hours at 93 dB. Entertainment venues sustain 100+ dB for 4-8+ hour shifts, creating significant cumulative exposure.

State Guidance

NSW and VIC have issued industry-specific guidance on music venue noise and hearing health obligations.

Conclusion

Entertainment industry hearing health is evolving. Early adoption of audiometric testing demonstrates WHS leadership and protects your workforce.

Contact Anitech for entertainment venue and event testing programs.