VMA RELEASES HEARING TEST INFO

The Visual Media Association (VMA) has released an Audiometric Testing Requirements Advisory for members this week, responding to member confusion across the hearing test requirements for their respective states.

As this is legislated and a requirement, VMA has compiled key points into a Member Advisory notice highlighting work related hearing loss, its background, testing requirements, what is an audiometric test and who can perform them, along with further information with provided links for each state and territory.

Charles Watson, general manager – IR, Policy and Governance, VMA, said, “Under workplace health and safety laws in each jurisdiction, there is a requirement that employers consult with their workers on health and safety matters. As a result, affected members should openly discuss this new requirement with affected workers. This could include seeking workers input to determine the most appropriate testing service, and if there are any identifiable risks and potential steps to manage those risks that are not already in place.”

The Advisory aims to provide an overview and update across the jurisdictions, on the current workplace audiometric testing requirements for workers who are exposed to noise levels that may have a detrimental impact on hearing.

Kellie Northwood, CEO of VMA, said, “It is really important our members are armed with the right information across their legislative requirements, and the hearing tests is an important one to follow. Testing is legislated and a requirement of the law, and members should ensure all hearing test reports, including any updated baseline hearing tests, are treated confidentially as health record documents.

“I want to thank Charles and the team for building this advisory and ready reckoner document to assist our members in their understanding across the legislation, and therefore their compliance.”