Health

Hearing and PPE Fit Tests

Noise and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious issue and can affect a worker’s ability to perform their duties safely.

In the NSW coal industry, the noise hazards arising from equipment and processes may leave workers exposed to risk. Employers and workers must be aware of workplace noise exposures and implement and maintain effective noise control strategies to minimise risk.

NIHL has the highest incidence rate and the highest number of claims for occupational disease in the coal industry.

Audiometry

Under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025, regular audiometric (hearing) testing is required for workers who are frequently exposed to high noise levels and must wear personal protective equipment to protect against hearing loss.

The Regulation requires a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to arrange audiometric testing for workers every two years.

Exemption: three-year testing frequency

SafeWork NSW has granted an exemption that allows a modified testing frequency in certain circumstances:

  • Audiometric testing may be conducted every three years instead of every two years
  • This exemption applies where workers are undergoing a scheduled Order 45 health assessment, which includes audiometric testing.

The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 Exemption No. 25-042 states that:

  • The exemption applies to PCBUs subject to the Coal Services Health Monitoring Requirements for Coal Mine Workers Order No. 45 (Order No. 45).
  • A PCBU to whom Order No. 45 applies is exempt from compliance with section 58(2) of the Regulation.
  • To rely on this exemption, the PCBU must remain fully compliant with sections 6, 7 and 11 of Order 45, relating to:
    • Health assessments
    • Retirement health assessments
    • Transitional arrangements

How CS Health can support you

We can help you meet your WHS obligations by providing audiometric testing as part of your workers’ Order 45 health assessments.
These assessments help to:

  • Identify early signs of hearing loss
  • Monitor changes in hearing over time
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements