Spirit Occupational Health’s mobile screening complies with The Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (Health and Safety Executive) and the British Society of Audiology procedures for Pure Tone Audiometry.
Each appointment is completed with the latest laptop-controlled audiometers, sound proofed audiometry booths and headphones to give the maximum sound reduction. Background noise levels are monitored continually with a sound level meter to ensure correct environmental screening conditions.
Before the hearing test can begin the employee needs to answer some hearing-health questions which aim to identify any factors which may have an impact on the audiometry results.
The examination of the ear is an important part of the audiometry and provides some basic information on the health of the ear before the test can begin. Spirit Occupational Health staff will check the ear canal using an otoscope and individual disposable speculums.
The hearing test is the main component of the audiometry process. This consists of the employee wearing a set of headphones and a series of sounds being played to them. The sounds vary in pitch and volume and aim to determine what level of hearing the employee has.
Results are examined and categorised according to the scheme in the noise at work regulations.
The audiometry results are then discussed with the employee. This is important as it ensures they understand the results and the real-life meaning for them. Often this is the most valuable part of the audiometry programme and can greatly improve compliance with the requirements to wear hearing protection whilst working on the job.
Where audiometry has been undertaken previously the most recent results are compared against the previous figures to determine if any changes have occurred during the intervening time, which can be used to determine rapid hearing loss.
A management letter will accompany the individual employee health surveillance reports. This will summarise the results and identifying any trends which may have become evident during the process.
Each employee will also be sent a copy of their summarised report for their information.
All employees that have gained a HSE Categorisation which requires referral to the GP will be formally referred by letter.
Spirit Occupational Health will make recommendations on the individuals’ suitability for work or give detail on any restrictions or changes which may be required to enable them to continue to work safely.
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