Audiometry and hearing conservation.
Noise-induced hearing loss is the most commonly compensated occupational disease in South Africa, and the most preventable. A hearing conservation programme only works when the noise survey and the audiometry are run as one process.
Audiometry in practice
The survey sets the schedule
The Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Regulations under the OHS Act 85 of 1993 require a noise survey on site at least every 24 months, or sooner where any change could affect site noise rating levels. Surveys are performed to SANS 10083, the national standard for the measurement and assessment of occupational noise for hearing conservation purposes.
The outcome of that survey is what determines who enters the hearing conservation programme and how often they are tested. Running the two separately is how employees end up either over-tested or, far worse, missed entirely.
What the programme covers
A hearing conservation programme is a chain, not a test.
Noise survey
Site noise rating levels measured to SANS 10083 by calibrated instrument, on the statutory cycle.
Baseline and periodic audiometry
Audiometric testing as part of the standard medical, at the frequency the exposure requires.
Shift monitoring and referral
Percentage loss of hearing tracked over time, with referral where a shift is detected.
Control and PPE review
Findings fed back into the hierarchy of controls, not simply filed.
A properly evidenced hearing conservation programme, with its noise survey, baseline audiogram, periodic testing and documented controls, is the record that determines the outcome of a compensation claim years after the exposure occurred.
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