Local firm Hayden Recruitment has introduced a new organisation, Hayden Workplace Testing, to provide a mobile audio, drug and alcohol testing service. Under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, it is now mandatory for businesses to conduct audiometric testing on workers who are frequently required to use personal hearing protectors to reduce the risk of hearing loss associated with noise. Hearing tests must be conducted within three months of a new employee commencing work and regular follow-up tests must be carried out at least every two years or in some cases every six months. This is determined by noise levels in the workplace. Testing services will be provided from their mobile van, which houses testing equipment. Employee Callum Hayden said “Part of my job involves ensuring all of our equipment is calibrated and maintained to the strict standards put forward by NATA (the National Association of Testing Authorities).The drug and alcohol testing units we use are the same as those used by the NSW Police Force and the Australian Federal Police.” Printed reports will be made available immediately following the tests, and the company stores all results in a secure database. Hayden Workplace Testing is operated by WorkCover NSW accredited staff who hold Bachelor of Nursing qualifications, as well as audiometrist credentials. “Some mines, power stations and manufacturers regularly pay their staff extended shift rates and overtime costs just so they can take their audio, drug and alcohol tests. Our new mobile service gives local companies a more cost-efficient way to meet compliance requirements and reduce the risk of their staff on-site,” said Hayden Recruitment CEO Stephanie Hayden.

For further information contact Hayden Recruitment on (02) 4948 0020 or visit http://www.haydenrecruitment.com.au/