Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the most common, yet under-recognised, workplace health issues in Australia. Unlike acute injuries, hearing loss develops gradually and often goes unnoticed until it becomes permanent. And once it occurs, it cannot be reversed.
The good news is that occupational hearing loss is preventable. With proper monitoring, control measures, and expert medical input, employers can safeguard their workforce against long-term hearing damage. At Phoenix Occupational Medicine, we partner with organisations to assess risk, ensure compliance, and implement effective strategies to prevent NIHL in the workplace.
Information provided is general only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. We recommend that readers seek advice for their specific circumstances.
What Is Occupational Hearing Loss?
Occupational hearing loss refers to the permanent reduction in hearing ability caused by exposure to hazardous noise at work. Unlike age-related hearing decline, which occurs gradually due to ageing, occupational hearing loss is preventable and directly related to workplace conditions.
Repeated exposure to noise levels above the Australian exposure standard of 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour shift can cause irreversible damage to the inner ear. In many cases, workers may not realise their hearing is deteriorating until the damage is already done.
Industries most at risk include construction, manufacturing, mining, aviation, and agriculture—where heavy machinery, powered tools, and impact noise are common. But it’s not just about noise volume. Hazards also include:
- Vibration: Prolonged use of equipment that causes whole-body vibration can increase the risk of hearing loss.
- Ototoxic substances: Some chemicals and medications (e.g. solvents, heavy metals, or certain antibiotics) can damage hearing. Exposure to both noise and ototoxins can have a compounding effect.
According to WorkSafe Queensland, from 29 July 2025, businesses must provide audiometric testing for workers who are required to use hearing protection due to exposure exceeding the standard. Testing must occur:
- Within three months of a worker starting, and
- At least once every two years thereafter.
Employers are advised to refer to national and state-specific resources for further guidance:
- Safe Work Australia – Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work
- WorkSafe QLD – Code of Practice
Understanding the Risks and Legal Responsibility
Common workplace noise hazards include:
- Ongoing operation of noisy machinery
- Short bursts of high-intensity noise (e.g. impact tools, explosives)
- Environments where shouting is needed to communicate at arm’s length
According to Australian WHS regulations, employers must eliminate or minimise noise risks so far as is reasonably practicable. However, hearing protection should be seen as a last resort—systemic noise control is more effective in preventing damage.
Phoenix Occupational Medicine supports businesses by going beyond raw data. Our occupational physicians help interpret noise monitoring reports in the broader context of worker health. We ask questions like:
- Do you have existing WorkCover claims for hearing loss?
- Are your workers exposed to whole-body vibration or ototoxic substances?
- Are there any medications in use that could increase hearing risk?
- Are there signs of early hearing loss in long-term employees?
The Appendix C of the Queensland Code of Practice includes a helpful self-assessment checklist for employers, with questions such as:
- Is shouting needed to speak at a distance of 1 metre?
- Do workers report tinnitus, muffled hearing, or needing to turn up the radio after work?
- Do any equipment labels show noise levels ≥ 80 dB(A) LAeq,T or ≥ 130 dB(C) peak?
- Are workers exposed to both noise and chemicals?
- Are audiometric test results showing signs of deterioration?
These are the questions occupational physicians consider when assessing whether a noise exposure problem may already exist—sometimes before the employer is even aware.
Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss
The most effective approach is one that applies the hierarchy of controls:
1. Noise Monitoring and Assessment
Understand the baseline. Identify who is exposed, for how long, and under what circumstances. Use dosimetry or area monitoring as required.
2. Engineering Controls
- Use quieter machinery or retrofit sound-dampening features
- Install barriers, enclosures, or vibration-dampening platforms
3. Administrative Controls
- Rotate workers to reduce prolonged exposure
- Schedule noisy tasks when fewer workers are present
- Limit time spent in high-noise zones
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Provide properly fitted earplugs or earmuffs
- Train workers on how and when to use PPE
- Replace PPE regularly and maintain hygiene
Phoenix Occupational Medicine assists employers by reviewing workplace assessments conducted by hygienists or safety consultants. Our physicians interpret findings in a medical context, helping businesses understand the potential health impacts of the exposures and how to act on them.
Health Surveillance and Early Detection
Early detection of hearing loss can prevent further deterioration. Health surveillance—particularly regular audiometric testing—is critical for identifying changes in hearing ability before they become permanent.
Phoenix Occupational Medicine can help your business:
- Establish a compliant audiometric testing programme
- Monitor changes in workers’ hearing over time
- Communicate results effectively and confidentially
Our approach is not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring that workers can continue to engage fully in work and life. As we often say: “Our mission is to make sure the tradie can still hear their grandchild in 20 years.”
Managing Cases of Occupational Hearing Loss
If hearing loss is detected, best-practice management involves:
- Ongoing medical monitoring
- Specialist referrals where further audiological evaluation or ENT support is needed
- Workplace adjustments such as reassignment to lower-noise environments
Early action can improve long-term outcomes and may reduce the severity of compensation claims. Our occupational physicians work with employers, employees, and treating practitioners to coordinate return-to-work plans and support ongoing health.
Key Takeaways
- Occupational hearing loss is preventable—but only if the risks are recognised early and addressed systematically.
- Employers are legally obligated to monitor and control workplace noise and ensure affected workers receive proper surveillance and support.
- Phoenix Occupational Medicine provides expert medical advice, health surveillance, and strategy development to protect hearing in the workplace.
If your organisation needs support creating or reviewing a workplace noise prevention strategy, contact Phoenix Occupational Medicine today.
