Reliability of industrial audiometry as a screening method for incipient noise-induced hearing loss

Pure-tone audiometry is at present regarded as the best available method in industry for the monitoring of noise-induced occupational hearing loss. The legal obligations and guidelines regarding this procedure are discussed in respect of the situation in the RSA and in other countries, and problems resulting from the time-growth curve for noise-induced hearing loss are emphasised. A survey of audiometric tests performed on 47 healthy men aged 20-41 years exposed to noise levels of 85-92 dB for at least 5 years is reported. The results of this survey reveal the limitations of audiometric monitoring. Some recommendations are made which would take account of these limitations and thus increase the reliability of audiometry in industry.