If you work in a prescribed ‘noisy workplace’, your employer is responsible for arranging a WorkCover WA hearing test when you start work. The employer is responsible for paying for this test.

A prescribed ‘noisy workplace’ is one where a worker receives a personal noise dose of 90dB(A) or above during their typical eight hour work day, or its equivalent. A worker who receives noise above the peak exposure of 140dB(lin), even for a short time, will also require testing.

90 dB is roughly equivalent to the noise from an idling heavy motor truck at a distance of one metre, while 140 dB(lin) is roughly equivalent to the peak noise from a firearm at the user’s ear.

For more information about hearing tests and compensation, click on the hearing brochure in the publications section to your right.

If you are unsure about hearing tests and require further information about this process, please call WorkCover WA’s Advisory Services on 1300 794 744.