WorkCover Hearing Tests

Who is Entitled to WorkCover Testing?

All workers in ‘noisy employment’ must have their hearing assessed within three months of commencing work, and at least every two years, regardless of the type or amount of hearing protection worn. 

A workplace is considered ‘noisy employment’ if there is a daily noise dose of 85dB(A) during an eight hour period OR if noise exposure peaks at 140dB(C).

PLEASE NOTE: Western Australian legislation differs from other Australian states.

Signs of Noise Induced Hearing Loss

• Inability to hear high-pitched sounds
• Muffled or distorted speech
• Tinnitus (ringing, whistling or buzzing in the ear)
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Requiring frequent repetition of words and sentences
• Trouble hearing in background noise

What Does a NIHL Assessment Cost?

The worker’s current employer is required to pay for the audiological test once every two years (if the employer is a ‘noisy employer’ as defined above).

If the worker is not employed in ‘noisy employment’ or has ceased employment by more than three months, the worker can pay for their NIHL assessment; the cost will be reimbursed if there is a successful claim for NIHL compensation. 

How to Prepare for a NIHL Assessment

You should avoid exposure to noise exceeding 80dB for 16 hours prior to your appointment. This is to ensure that reliable results are obtained. If you have been exposed to noise exceeding 80dB in the 16 hours leading up to your assessment, we will need to re-schedule the assessment. 

To arrange an assessment or for more information about WorkCover WA, call us on (08) 9388 8003.