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Industrial deafness

What you need to know about industrial (WorkCover) deafness

Identifying industrial deafness

Any job that involves heavy machinery or exposure to loud noises can be a major risk factor for industrial deafness. If you work in a loud environment, caring for your hearing health is paramount.

Always wear all required hearing protection equipment to protect your hearing health when working in loud environments – this will help prevent the on-set of industrial deafness.

At Sydney Hearing Clinic we are here to support you if you need a hearing assessment for suspected industrial deafness. At the request of the relevant insurance company, our audiologists will perform a thorough and comprehensive hearing assessment, and discuss all your hearing and work history details in order to build a complete picture of your hearing health.

Identifying industrial deafness

What is industrial deafness?

Industrial deafness, also referred to as industrial hearing loss or occupational hearing loss, is a form of hearing loss that occurs as a result of exposure to high levels of sound within the workplace. This exposure can be prolonged and/or where no hearing protection was worn, or a sudden one-off exposure to an extremely high level of noise causing hearing trauma.

Industrial deafness may affect those working in a variety of industries, but some jobs are more risky than others due to the use of loud machinery and frequent exposure to high levels of noise. 

Industries where industrial deafness is common:

  • Construction
  • Aviation
  • Manufacturing
  • Mining
  • Agriculture
  • Transport, including truck drivers
  • Music and events
  • Local government

When our ears are exposed to significant levels of sound over time, or suddenly in the case of hearing trauma, the delicate structures within the ear become damaged, preventing sound from travelling through the ear.

More information about industrial deafness

Symptoms of industrial deafness can vary from person to person, however some of the most common signs reported in those living with the condition include:

  • Temporary or permanent hearing loss in one or both ears
  • Difficulty understanding speech in settings with high levels of background noise
  • A constant ringing, whistling, hissing or buzzing in one or both ears - tinnitus
  • Difficulty hearing the radio or television
  • Missing portions of conversations despite paying attention
  • Difficulty hearing higher-pitched sounds, including the voices of children and women
A Sydney Hearing Clinic hearing test conducted by our expert audiologist will be the most important element of a diagnosis of industrial deafness.

During your appointment, our audiologist will take the time to discuss in detail with you your work history, specific incidents, use of protective equipment, previous hearing test results etc. This information, in addition to the audiologists’ knowledge, experience, and use of state of the art diagnostic equipment, will provide a clear and comprehensive diagnosis and recommended actions in a detailed report.
Yes. Our specialist audiologist will recommend treatment actions depending on the industrial deafness symptom that was diagnosed ie. tinnitus or hearing loss.

We will work together with WorkCover insurance providers to support you through your diagnosis and treatment.
Yes. Industrial deafness hearing assessments will need a referral from a WorkCover insurance company.
Unlike some other forms of hearing loss, industrial deafness can often be prevented. Some steps that can be taken to help reduce exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace include:.

  • Ensuring adequate hearing protection, such as earmuffs and earplugs, is worn while working in loud environments
  • Regularly checking that all hearing protection equipment is in good working order and used appropriately
  • Where possible, reducing the amount of time exposed to high levels of noise
  • Introducing soundproofing and noise reduction equipment
  • Having your hearing regularly tested, so that any changes can be monitored

As the symptoms of industrial deafness may not be noticed for months or years, especially when prolonged exposure is involved, it’s essential that all preventative measures are used consistently wherever possible.

Speak to our experienced audiology team today

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