Of all our five senses we are most dependent on our eyes and ears. Hearing together with speech enable us to communicate with each other. Hearing loss is a significant disability.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss or Occupational Deafness can be prevented by reducing the levels of noise exposure to below 85dB(A) for an eight hour day. Where this is not possible the ears should be protected by individual hearing protection and it is advisable for regular audiometric testing.

A company must exercise an extra duty of care to an employee with an existing disability, known to be working in an environment which could worsen the disability.

Companies find it of value to have a series of audiograms from an employee, measured over a period of years. These assist in checking the validity of an employee claim against the company for noise induced hearing loss. Currently compensation for noise-induced hearing loss is costing major UK companies millions of pounds each year. Much of this could have been saved by audiometric testing and action on the results. Pre-employment audiometry is particularly valuable for showing hearing loss from a previous company, they also show if an individual has a hearing disability which could be a danger to himself or others.