Audiometry
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What is Audiometric Testing?
Hearing loss can affect anyone. People subjected to loud environments or higher-than-normal levels of noise for long periods of time can experience noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The World Health Organization considers noise-induced hearing loss to be the most common preventable occupational injury. Hearing damage is often painless, leaves no visible scars, and is irreversible once it occurs.
An audiometric test is one way to detect hearing loss and is a key element of a Hearing Loss Prevention Program (HLPP). During the test, an individual responds to a series of pure tones at discreet frequencies and output levels through a headset worn by the test subject. The instrument used to deliver the tones is called an audiometer, and the test is often performed in a quiet, controlled environment or a sound booth.
The frequencies (in Hz) used during the test include 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000, and the signal level can range from -10 to 100 dBHL (decibel hearing level). The test is performed on each ear independently, and the goal is to detect changes or shifts that could signal the beginning of hearing loss or disease.
Audiometric Testing can help identify the type of hearing loss, our ability to discriminate between different sound intensities, how we distinguish speech from background noise or the degree of hearing loss.
New hires exposed to workplace noise should be tested when they first start their role to create a baseline. The baseline will be used for comparison at annual test intervals to see if there is a concern for hearing loss.
Types of Audiometric Testing
There are two types of audiometric tests:
- Reference test: This is the baseline test conducted after a period of 12 to 14 hours away from noise. It is required within six months of a new hire, preferably within the first 30 days.
- Monitoring test: This should be conducted annually and serves a dual purpose. The test provides:
• Information related to changes in an individual worker’s hearing compared to a reference test.
• Group information may be used to determine whether the Hearing Loss Prevention Program (HLPP) is effective.
A significant threshold shift (STS) is the change in the hearing threshold when comparing the reference test to the annual monitoring test. It can be classified in two ways:
- An average shift of hearing threshold >=10 dB at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz in either ear, or
- A shift of hearing threshold >=15 dB at 3000 or 4000 Hz.
Any individual with an STS recorded on two consecutive tests should consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. An effective follow-up can help prevent permanent noise-induced hearing loss.
CSA Z106.6 Audiometric Testing for use in Hearing Loss Prevention Programs provides additional guidance on Audiometric Testing in Canadian workplaces.
Levitt-Safety distributes all equipment necessary to support your Hearing Loss Prevention Program requirements. We represent Tremetrics and Smartone audiometers, Eckel sound booths, Svantek sound level meters and noise dosimeters, and several solutions for Hearing Protector Fit Testing, Communication in noisy environments, and personal protection.
Our bestselling audiometers:
Levitt-Safety distributes audiometric instruments and hearing conservation products from top manufacturers, including Tremetrics, Quest by 3M, Eckel Industries, Workplace Integra, and SoundEar.
Tremetrics® RA660 PC-Based Audiometer with HearCon Software
- Automatic, semi-automatic, or manual testing operation
- Fully integrated bio-acoustic simulator, talk-over mic and response switch
- Optional integrated room monitor measures background noise
- Quickly test up to 8 people simultaneously with additional audiometer modules
Tremetrics® RA360 Industrial Audiometer
- Simple, intuitive operation
- Built-in test instructions in multiple languages
- Internal storage of 500 audiograms
- Optional USB printer, room monitor, and Oscar 360 bio-acoustic simulator
Eckel 4230 Audiometric Sound Booth
- Modular, portable booth with Cam-Lock construction
- Many sizes available to fit your space/li>
- Includes left or right opening door and window, jack panel, & LED lighting
- Optional features include window-in-door and trailer-mounting package
Next steps:
Are you looking to improve your hearing loss prevention program?
You may need equipment, services, training or guidance.
Our Hearing Loss Prevention Guide can help, download now.
The team at Levitt-Safety can offer a wide range of hearing conservation products and services including:
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