Audiometry - Hearing Test

An audiometry evaluation hearing test is a painless, noninvasive hearing test that measures a person's ability to hear different sounds, pitches, or frequencies. 

An audiometry examination evaluates your capacity to perceive sounds, which differ in both their volume (intensity) and the frequency of sound wave vibrations (tone). Hearing is initiated when sound waves stimulate the nerves within the inner ear, transmitting the sound signals along nerve pathways to the brain. These sound waves can reach the inner ear via two pathways: through the ear canal, eardrum, and middle ear bones (air conduction), or through the bones surrounding and behind the ear (bone conduction). During a hearing test, we check not only your ability to hear, but also the processes of air and bone conduction to ensure you are hearing correctly.

Audiometry testing is a pivotal element in ensuring auditory well-being within Australian workplaces. Recognising the imperative of such assessments, particularly within the initial three months of employment, is fundamental for both employers and employees to uphold the standards outlined in occupational health and safety regulations.

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The ear consists of three main parts: the outer, middle, and inner ear. Through audiometry tests, one can determine if there is sensorineural hearing loss (caused by damage to the nerve or cochlea) or conductive hearing loss (caused by damage to the eardrum or the small ossicle bones). Various hearing tests are conducted during an audiometry evaluation.

A pure tone audiometry test determines the faintest sound a person can detect. During the test, you'll wear earphones and hear various sounds directed to each ear individually. Sound intensity is quantified in decibels (dB), with a whisper at about 20 dB, loud music ranging from 80-120 dB, and a jet engine registering at around 180 dB. Sound frequency, measured in Hertz (Hz), encompasses low bass tones from 50-60 Hz and high-pitched tones at 10,000 Hz or above. Typically, normal hearing spans from 250 to 8,000 Hz at 25 dB or lower.

A word recognition test, also known as a speech discrimination test, gauges one's ability to comprehend speech amidst background noise. Poor speech discrimination may result in garbled speech. These scores can be pivotal in predicting the effectiveness of a hearing aid.

Tympanometry testing identifies issues like fluid or wax accumulation, a perforated eardrum, damage to ossicle bones, and even middle ear tumours. Acoustic reflex testing evaluates the cranial nerves and brainstem.

A hearing test with Fit Test Australia is an all encompassing audiometry assessment that will provide a clear evaluation of hearing ability to ensure that occupational health and safety standards are maintained over the course of employment, maintaining hearing ability. 

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In Australia, audiometry testing is not merely a recommended practice; it is a legal requirement established by occupational health and safety regulations. Adhering to these standards is crucial for maintaining a safe working environment.

 

Australia's robust regulations prioritise the protection of workers from noise-induced hearing loss. Audiometry testing is a critical tool in assessing and mitigating risks associated with workplace noise exposure, in line with these established standards.

Regular audiometry testing is integral for ensuring ongoing compliance with established Australian workplace health and safety standards, fostering a culture of employee well-being.

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Audiometry tests serve as a proactive measure for the early detection of hearing loss or impairment, aligning with the stringent standards set to address occupational noise exposure risks.

Commencing employment with a baseline audiometry test within the initial three months is not just a best practice; it is a standard outlined by occupational health and safety regulations. Establishing a baseline audiogram for each employee is mandated to track changes in hearing over time.

Routine hearing testing, aligned with Australian workplace health and safety standards, enables early identification of hearing issues, facilitating preventive measures to preserve auditory health.

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For employees in noise-prone environments, the early audiometry hearing test aligns with standards, evaluating susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss. This assessment forms the basis for tailoring effective hearing protection measures.

The exposure standard for noise is defined concerning a person, encompassing LAeq,8h of 85 dB(A) or LC, peak of 140 dB(C). These standards are referenced to 20 micropascals and are determined in accordance with AS/NZS 1269.1:2005, emphasising the precise measurement and assessment of noise emission and exposure.

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There is no special preparation for the hearing test. We recommend that you try your best to remain still and quiet during the test so that an accurate recording can be made.

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Normal hearing encompasses the capacity to perceive a whisper, normal speech, and the ticking of a watch. Additionally, hearing a tuning fork through both air and bone is considered normal. In comprehensive audiometry, hearing is deemed normal when one can detect tones ranging from 250 to 8,000 Hz at 25 dB or lower.

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Hearing loss manifests in various forms and degrees. Some types may solely affect the ability to hear high or low tones, or may impact either air or bone conduction exclusively. 
If one cannot hear pure tones below 25 dB, it suggests some level of hearing loss.
The extent and nature of the hearing loss can offer insights into its underlying cause and the likelihood of hearing recovery.

Several conditions may influence test outcomes, including:
Acoustic neuroma
Acoustic trauma resulting from exposure to extremely loud or intense blasts
Age-related hearing loss
Alport syndrome
Chronic ear infections
Labyrinthitis
Ménière's disease
Continuous exposure to loud noise, such as in the workplace or from music
Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear (otosclerosis)
Ruptured or perforated eardrum

 

Fit Test Australia’s approach to combining audiometry hearing testing with exposure standards ensures a comprehensive approach to auditory health in Australian workplaces, aligning with rigorous regulatory requirements. Adherence to these standards not only fosters a safer work environment but also contributes to the overall well-being of the workforce.

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