Audiometry

The test is performed with the use of electronic equipment called an audiometer and administered by a trained occupational health technician.

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The following necessary information MUST be taken to the appointment:

• Current official photo ID e.g. driving licence / passport
• Details of all medication that is being taken regularly (a repeat prescription form is useful)
• Corrective hearing aids, if used.

Unfortunately, if you attend your appointment without the necessary information; the appointment will have to be rearranged – this will incur an additional cost.

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At the Appointment

Proof of ID will be requested before the audiometry test commences.

The following tasks will then be performed:

• The employee will be asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their medical history, any previous noise exposure, and any current symptoms they may be experiencing.
• An otoscopic examination is carried out to check the condition of the outer ear and the tympanic membrane (ear drum).
• A hearing test will commence. The employee will wear a set of audio cups (headphones) to create more reliable hearing thresholds and will be given a response button. They will be instructed to listen for sounds that are directed to each ear, one at a time and to press the response button whenever they hear a tone.
• Following the test, the audiometer will print off the results and the occupational health technician will assess the hearing category.
• The employer will be notified of any poor hearing condition.
  • For Cat 3 and Cat 4; the employee should carry on as normal but make extra sure that PPE is used where there are any noisy tasks.
  • For Cat 3; the employee will be recalled for a follow up test in a year’s time.
  • For Cat 4; the employee will be recalled for a follow up test in 6 months’ time.