When starting a new job, many employers may ask you to attend a pre-employment hearing test. This test is especially common in industries like mining, construction, manufacturing, and transport, where workers are often exposed to loud noise.
Employers request these tests to make sure their staff are fit for the role and to protect both you and your employer, while also meeting WHS audiometric testing requirements in Australia. This test measures your hearing ability before you begin work, detects changes later on, and ensures you are safe in your role.
So, what happens during your pre-employment hearing test? Let’s give you a sneak peek of what really happens during your appointment.
Why Do Employers Require Pre-Employment Hearing Tests?
The main reason is workplace safety. Noise is one of the most common hazards in Australian workplaces, and long-term exposure can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Once hearing damage occurs, it is usually permanent.
Employers are legally responsible for reducing risks and protecting workers’ hearing. Under WHS audiometric testing requirements and standards, like AS/NZS 1269.4, companies must arrange tests in certain industries.
Key purposes of the test:
- Record a baseline: Establish your hearing ability before you begin work.
- Identify risks early: Detect if you already have signs of hearing damage.
- Ensure safety: Confirm you can hear warning alarms, instructions, and environmental sounds.
- Meet regulations: Help the employer meet their legal health and safety obligations.
What Happens During the Appointment?
A typical pre-employment hearing test service takes about 20–30 minutes. The process is straightforward, and your clinician will explain each step before starting the test. For us at Audience Hearing, we also ensure you are comfortable throughout the testing. By that, we encourage you to ask your questions for your peace of mind.
Here’s what usually happens:
Step 1: Discussion and History Taking
At the start, the audiologist will have a short chat with you. This helps them understand your background and lifestyle factors that might affect your hearing.
You may be asked about:
- Work history: Past jobs in noisy environments like factories or construction.
- Medical history: Previous ear infections, surgeries, tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Noise exposure outside work: Loud hobbies such as music, shooting, or motor sports.
Knowing these three things can help the practitioner to interpret the results correctly.
Step 2: Otoscopy (Ear Exam)
Next, the clinician performs an otoscopy, or an ear exam, which involves looking inside your ears with a small light.
They will check for:
- Excessive earwax that could block sound.
- Infections or swelling.
- The condition of your eardrum.
If a blockage is found, you may be referred for wax removal before the test continues.
Step 3: Tympanometry (Middle Ear Function)
Some clinics include tympanometry as part of the assessment. This step ensures your middle ear is also checked for fluid behind the eardrum, eustachian tube dysfunction, perforated eardrum or other middle ear issues that may affect your hearing. Here’s what will happen during this step:
- A small probe is placed in your ear canal.
- The device changes air pressure gently to test how your eardrum moves.
- Results show whether your middle ear is functioning normally.
Step 4: Pure-Tone Air & Bone Conduction Testing
This is the main part of the pre-employment hearing test. You will be instructed to sit in a quiet, soundproof booth and wear headphones. There are two tests done during this stage:
- Air conduction test: Sounds are played through headphones. You press a button each time you hear a beep.
- Bone conduction test: A small device is placed behind your ear, sending sound through the bones of your skull to measure inner ear function.
Your results are shown on an audiogram, a graph of your hearing thresholds (measured in decibels). This reveals the softest sounds you can hear at different pitches.
Step 5: Additional Screening (if required)
Depending on the workplace, extra tests may be included, such as:
- Speech audiometry – checking how well you understand words at different volumes.
- Noise-induced hearing loss screening – looking for the typical “dip” in hearing around 4,000 Hz, a sign of long-term noise exposure.
These tests will provide a more detailed picture of your hearing health.
After the Test: Results and Reporting
At the end of your appointment, the clinician will explain your results. This is usually explained in simple terms so you can clearly understand what they mean.
Here’s what happens with your results:
- If your hearing is normal: You’ll be given a fit-for-work hearing clearance or certificate.
- If some loss is detected: You may still be cleared to work, but the employer will be advised of your hearing needs.
- If significant problems are found: You may be referred for further audiology or medical review.
Many people also worry about who sees their results. Typically, your employer receives only a summary report stating whether you meet the role’s requirements. At Audience Hearing, we understand how important your privacy is. Aside from that, we have the Australian Privacy Act to protect you, where your detailed medical information is not shared without your consent.
Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Future
Starting a new job is exciting, and all your senses play a bigger role than you think, including your hearing. A pre-employment hearing test appointment is not just a requirement, but a way to protect your safety, ensure you’re fit for the role, and give your employer peace of mind.
If you’re looking for pre-employment hearing test assistance in Liverpool, Mollymook, Leppington or Mt Annan, the team at Audience Hearing is here to help. We will explain every step in simple terms, provide accurate results, and make sure your workplace requirements are met.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward safer working conditions and long-term hearing health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a pre-employment hearing test usually take?
Most appointments take around 20–30 minutes. If extra checks are needed, such as wax removal or additional screening, it may take a little longer.
2. What happens if I already have some hearing loss?
Having hearing loss does not automatically mean you will fail the test. Many roles allow workers with mild to moderate hearing loss. In some cases, hearing aids or safety adjustments may be recommended.
3. Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is needed. Just avoid loud noise for at least 16 hours before the test, bring your photo ID, and any details of your medical or hearing history.
4. Will my employer see all of my results?
No. Your employer will usually only receive a summary stating whether you are fit for work. Detailed medical results remain private unless you consent to share them.
5. Can I get a copy of my results?
Yes. You are entitled to get a copy of your audiogram and report. Simply ask the audiologist during or after your appointment.
6. How often do I need another hearing test?
For workers in noisy industries, follow-up tests are often required every two years to monitor changes in hearing and comply with workplace safety laws.
