In this 2 part series, we hope to help you understand the lay of the land around Audiometric Testing in WA.

Protecting workers from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a major health and safety obligation for businesses across Western Australia. With recent legislative updates and changes to long‑standing WorkCover WA processes, understanding your responsibilities around audiometric (hearing) testing is more important than ever.

This guide breaks down the current requirements in WA, why audiometric testing matters, and how WA workplaces can stay compliant.

Why Audiometric Testing Matters

Noise‑induced hearing loss is permanent but entirely preventable. Audiometric testing helps identify early signs of hearing deterioration so employers can review controls before the damage becomes irreversible. According to WorkSafe WA, these tests are designed to “identify workers exposed to excessive noise and intervene while effects are still temporary”. [worksafe.wa.gov.au]

For businesses, consistent testing also verifies the effectiveness of hearing protection strategies and overall workplace noise controls.

Current Legal Requirements in WA

1. Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations (General) 2022

Under Regulation 58, PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must provide audiometric testing when workers are frequently required to wear hearing protection to prevent NIHL. Testing must be provided:

  • Within 3 months of a worker starting relevant duties
  • At least every 2 years thereafter [worksafe.wa.gov.au]

This aligns with the WHS Act 2020 and AS/NZS 1269.4:2014 standards for occupational noise risk management.

Audiometric testing applies to workers exposed to:

  • Noise levels above 85 dB(A) over an 8‑hour shift
  • Peak noise above 140 dB(C)

2. Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023 Changes

From 1 July 2024, WorkCover WA no longer requires the previous WorkCover baseline audiometry test to be registered with them, shifting all mandatory testing responsibilities squarely under the WorkSafe WA governed WHS legislation. Mandatory baseline testing for NIHL under the compensation scheme has been removed, but employers must still conduct 2 yearly WHS‑based audiometric surveillance where noise risks are present.

Workers exposed to very high levels (e.g., >90 dB LAeq) may still request a WorkCover hearing test, conducted by accredited audiologists, under separate compensation provisions.

What WA Employers Must Do

1. Arrange Timely Audiometric Testing

Audiometric testing must occur within the required timeframes—baseline (within 3 months) and every 2 years thereafter. More frequent testing may be needed if exposure exceeds 100 dB(A).

WHP’s audiometric testing trucks provide a cost effective, onsite solution in Perth and WA.

2. Pay for the Tests

The employer/PCBU must cover all testing costs whenever testing is required due to workplace noise risks. [worksafe.wa.gov.au]

3. Determine Whether Workers Are “Frequently” Using Hearing Protection

If hearing protection is part of the normal job, audiometric testing is mandatory. Occasional or rare use may not trigger requirements. See more worksafe.wa.gov.au

4. Maintain Noise Control Measures

Testing doesn’t replace noise reduction—employers must still manage noise risks through elimination, engineering, and administrative controls. A Noise Survey helps identify what is required for this risk management.

5. Keep Accurate Records

Accurate audiometric records help identify threshold shifts and ensure compliance with WHS monitoring requirements. WHP’s risk management database and personal consultation approach supports you in managing this. We help you understand your needs and make sense of the data and reports. As needed phone consultation is always available.

Part 2 will cover the types of audiometric tests in WA