From 29 July 2025, Queensland businesses with employees exposed to hazardous noise will have a new legal responsibility: to arrange audiometric hearing tests for those staff. If earplugs or earmuffs are part of someone’s daily PPE, these rules apply to you.
Understanding Audiometric Testing
An audiometric test is a quick, non-invasive way to measure how well a person hears at different pitches. It can pick up subtle changes in hearing long before the person notices any difficulty.
At Noosa Hearing, we follow the AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 standard and check: 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 1500 Hz, 2000 Hz, 3000 Hz, 4000 Hz, 6000 Hz, and 8000 Hz in each ear.
Key Compliance Rules for Queensland Employers
Under WHS Regulation 2011, Section 58, if workers are exposed to noise levels above the safe standard (85 dB LAeq,8h):
– Initial test – within 3 months of the employee starting in a noisy role.
– Follow-up tests – at least once every 2 years.
Breaching these rules could mean fines of up to 60 penalty units—making early preparation essential.
How Noosa Hearing Delivers Workplace Testing
We provide more than a tick-the-box service:
– Pure tone audiometry covering 250 Hz–8,000 Hz.
– Video otoscopy to check ear canals for wax or blockages.
– Tympanometry to assess middle ear function.
– Pre-test guidance so results aren’t affected by recent noise exposure.
Why Hearing Monitoring Should Be a Priority
Workplace noise exposure can cause permanent, irreversible damage—but prevention is possible. Regular testing helps:
– Identify problems early.
– Confirm hearing protection is working.
– Reduce the chance of compensation claims.
– Show staff you take their wellbeing seriously.
Five Steps to Better Hearing Safety
1. Measure noise levels with a calibrated meter or professional survey.
2. Fix noise sources through maintenance, shielding, or quieter machinery.
3. Limit exposure by rotating tasks or altering schedules.
4. Fit PPE correctly—earmuffs or plugs must match the environment.
5. Train staff about noise hazards, PPE use, and early reporting of changes in hearing.
Your Workplace Hearing Safety Partner on the Sunshine Coast
With over 15 years’ clinical expertise, Noosa Hearing helps local businesses protect their people and meet WHS requirements.
We offer:
– Clear, compliant reports for your records.
– Follow-up care for any employees flagged as at risk.
📞 Call 0752318867 or visit www.noosahearing.com.au to arrange your workplace hearing tests today.
Protect your team’s hearing now to prevent problems later..
