BLOGS

Toolbox Talk: Your Annual Hearing Test, What to Expect

A 5-minute toolbox talk for BC supervisors and crew leads. Use it the week before a hearing testing visit. Free to print and use.

Why this matters

Some workers see the annual hearing test as a box to tick, and some worry it could cost them their job. Neither is true. The test is there to catch small changes early, while there is still time to fix the cause. A crew that understands that shows up on time, answers the questions honestly and gets more out of it.

Key points to cover

  • Why we do it: WorkSafeBC requires a hearing test for every worker exposed above the noise limits, within 6 months of starting and every year after.
  • It is quick: the test takes about 10 minutes and is done in a quiet testing van or room on site. You stay at work.
  • How it works: you wear headphones and press a button each time you hear a beep, even a very faint one. The tester also asks a few questions about noise exposure, hearing protection and your hearing health.
  • What the results mean: your results are compared with your earlier tests. If there is a change, the tester explains it and may suggest a follow-up or a better-fitting type of hearing protection.
  • It is not a pass or fail for your job: the point is to protect your hearing, not to take you off the tools.
  • Results go to WorkSafeBC: testers authorized by WorkSafeBC send the results in, which creates a record of your hearing over your working life.

How to prepare

  • Try to avoid loud noise for several hours before the test, including on the drive in. Wear your hearing protection if you have to be in noise first.
  • Bring your usual hearing protection so the tester can check it.
  • Mention any ear pain, ringing, recent colds or ear infections to the tester.

Questions to ask your crew

  • Does anyone have questions about how the test works?
  • Has anyone noticed changes in their hearing since last year?
  • Is anyone's hearing protection uncomfortable or hard to keep in?

Record it

Write down the date, the topic and who attended, and keep it with your safety records.

Where Clear Work fits

We run WorkSafeBC-authorized mobile hearing testing at your site, with results filed for you and tracked in your client portal so you can see who is due next.

Read more: why annual hearing testing matters. More talks in our free toolbox talk library.

This toolbox talk is general information. Follow your own hearing conservation program and the current WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation.

Related Services

Mobile Hearing Testing (WorkSafeBC-authorized)Respirator Fit TestingOn-Site First Aid TrainingIn-Home Ear Wax Removal (Clear Home)Request a Quote or Book a Home Visit

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