CASLPO News

October 5, 2026

Updated WSIB Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Policy Takes Effect October 7

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) has completed its review of feedback received through its consultation on the Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) policy. The updated policy takes effect October 7, 2026.

CASLPO is sharing the following key changes to help audiologists understand the updated requirements:

Hearing assessments: Both audiologists (AUDs) and hearing instrument practitioners (HIPs) can perform hearing assessments under the updated policy. Audiologists are required to complete prescriptions in accordance with CASLPO requirements and the WSIB billing schedule.
Hearing loss threshold: The minimum average hearing loss threshold for NIHL entitlement has increased to 26.25 dB in each ear.
Frequencies used to calculate the average: WSIB will continue to use thresholds at 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 Hz.
NIHL-related tinnitus: Physician involvement may be required for the evaluation of NIHL-related tinnitus in rare cases.

Audiologists who provide services related to WSIB claims should review the updated policy and familiarize themselves with the new requirements.

Background

WSIB conducted a consultation on proposed changes to its NIHL policy from November 10, 2025, to January 30, 2026. CASLPO participated in the consultation and provided feedback on the proposed changes, including recommendations related to the calculation of average hearing thresholds and clarification of the role of audiologists as regulated health professionals in assisting patients with WSIB claims.

In September, WSIB’s Consultation Secretariat notified CASLPO that it had completed its review of the feedback received through the consultation. WSIB has since released a consultation summary report, which provides background on the policy, an overview of the consultation process, and a summary of key themes and findings, along with WSIB’s responses.

WSIB has also posted an advance copy of the updated policy, which will come into effect on October 7, 2026.

Resources

WSIB: NIHL consultation summary report
WSIB: Advance copy of the updated NIHL policy

We thank audiologists for their attention to these changes and for continuing to assist patients with access to hearing aid funding through the WSIB by providing a high standard of care.