Client Overview
The client is a manufacturing company specialising in custom aluminium solutions. Due to the nature of fabrication, cutting, and machining processes, workplace noise levels regularly exceed the lower exposure action value of 80 dB(A), making hearing protection mandatory under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
This was the first year Healthscreen UK had delivered occupational health services for this organisation, following their transition from an alternative Occupational Health provider.
The Issue
As part of routine statutory health surveillance, audiometric testing was carried out for employees exposed to noise levels exceeding 80 dB(A).
During testing, a young employee with relatively short service presented audiometry results suggestive of early noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Given the employee’s age and limited occupational history, the findings were unexpected and raised immediate concern.
Clinical Evaluation
A workplace visit was conducted by an experienced Occupational Health Technician, who carried out audiometry testing within one of Healthscreen UK’s fully equipped mobile units. Testing was performed in accordance with recognised audiometric standards.
During assessment, the technician identified that the audiometric results appeared ambiguous but demonstrated characteristics commonly associated with noise-induced hearing loss. In line with Healthscreen UK’s clinical governance procedures, the results were immediately escalated for further review.
The Occupational Health Advisor (OHA), upon reviewing the audiometry report, determined that the findings required further specialist assessment and referred the case to a qualified Occupational Health Physician (OHP).
Following review, the OHP noted that while the audiogram showed features consistent with NIHL, the pattern was atypical. Specifically:
- The hearing loss appeared unilateral (affecting one ear more than the other).
- The configuration did not fully align with the classic bilateral “notch” typically seen in occupational NIHL.
This indicated that the hearing loss may not be solely attributable to workplace exposure and required further medical investigation.
Recommended Actions
Given the employee’s young age and potential ongoing exposure to elevated noise levels, a precautionary and proactive approach was adopted.
The following actions were recommended:
1. GP Referral The employee was advised to seek further investigation via their GP for comprehensive audiological assessment, to rule out alternative causes of unilateral hearing loss.
2. Information Sharing With appropriate consent, relevant health surveillance findings were to be shared with the employer to ensure workplace risk management measures could be reviewed.
3. Workplace Risk Assessment Review Management was advised to:
- Reassess the current noise risk assessment.
- Review engineering and administrative control measures.
- Confirm adequacy and correct usage of hearing protection.
- Reinforce training on proper fitting and compliance.
4. Exposure Reduction The organisation was reminded of its duty to reduce noise exposure to a level that is “as low as reasonably practicable,” prioritising engineering controls over reliance on PPE alone.
Outcome
The employee will remain enrolled in the company’s health surveillance programme in accordance with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
A repeat audiometry test has been scheduled for 12 months’ time to monitor any progression or change. Earlier review may be arranged depending on the outcome of the GP referral.
This case demonstrates:
- The importance of robust health surveillance systems
- The value of clear clinical escalation pathways
- The need to differentiate between occupational and non-occupational causes of hearing loss
- The role of occupational health in both employee wellbeing and employer compliance
If your workforce is exposed to noise, early detection matters. Speak with Healthscreen UK to review your current health surveillance programme and ensure your team is protected.
