Why is it mandatory for employers in Queensland to submit its employees to Audiometric (Hearing) test.

Background of the “Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work Code of Practice”

In 2011, a new Code of Practice was introduced called “Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work”. This code applies Australia wide, although Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia elected to transition the requirements to the 1st of January 2014. This means that as an employer, by law you are required to provide audiometric testing for employees in certain circumstances.

So what does this mean for you as an employer?

For you as an employer, this means that by 1st January 2014, all existing workers who are frequently required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) for exposure to noise will have to have audiometric testing (excluding those engaged for less than three months). In addition, new workers will need to be tested within three months of commencement, and all workers to be re-tested every two years and when reasonably requested by a health and safety representative of the employee’s designated work group.

The Code also states that if you provide hearing protectors to control your employees’ noise exposure so that it does not exceed the noise exposure standard, you must provide audiometric testing for those employees (‘mandatory audiometric testing’).

What do you need to do to ensure you are compliant with all legal requirements?

When providing audiometric testing for employees, it is recommended that employers ensure the service provider complies with the relevant requirements of AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 – Occupational noise management – Auditory assessment (compliance with this specific part of the code should be included it in your agreement with the service provider). This is to ensure testing is accurate and carried out by an appropriate person.

Contact us for a quote to have onsite Audiometric testing inBrisbane completed and remain legally compliant.