Ensuring the health and safety of employees is a primary concern for businesses, and The NSW Government has approved the commencement of Clause 58 – Audiometric Testing under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017 from 1 January 2024 These regulations are pivotal in safeguarding the auditory health of workers exposed to potentially damaging noise levels in their workplace environments. As a business operating in NSW, it’s imperative to understand and comply with these regulations, prioritising the wellbeing of your workforce. Who does this apply to? Any business with workers who are frequently required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect them from the risk of hearing loss associated with noise that exceeds the exposure standard* for noise. So, what has changed? These businesses now must provide audiometric testing for the worker: (a) within 3 months of the worker commencing the work, and (b) in any event, at least every 2 years. What is audiometric testing? In clause 58, audiometric testing means the testing and measurement of the hearing threshold levels of each ear of a person by means of pure tone air conduction threshold tests. WHA assessors are suitably trained in these procedures, with equipment that meets the relevant standards required for specific workplace needs, delivering hearing assessment services across all industries and their workforces. Prioritising occupational hearing testing and complying with the regulations set forth by the NSW Work Health and Safety Act is not just a legal obligation but a crucial step in safeguarding the wellbeing of your workforce. By adhering to these regulations, businesses demonstrate a commitment to fostering a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. Regular noise assessments, implementation of control measures, provision of appropriate PPE, conducting regular hearing tests, and meticulous record-keeping are integral components of compliance. Ultimately, investing in the protection of employees’ hearing health contributes to a more productive, engaged, and healthier workforce. * The exposure standard for noise is set, by The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 (clause 56), at an LAeq, 8h of 85dB(A) and a peak noise level at 140dB(C).