Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant workplace health concern, and employers have a responsibility to protect their workers from these risks.  Australian regulations require certain employers to complete mandatory noise monitoring activities or risk heavy fines for non-compliance.

Understanding noise exposure in the workplace  

Excessive noise exposure is a common hazard in industries such as construction, mining, manufacturing and transportation. 

In Australia, prescribed workplaces must provide hearing assessments for workers exposed to high noise levels. A prescribed workplace is one where workers experience:  

• A representative daily noise dose of ≥85 dB(A) over an eight-hour work period  
• Noise peaks of ≥140 dB(lin) at any time  

For businesses operating in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia, compliance with noise regulations is crucial to avoid legal penalties and, more importantly, to protect employees from long-term hearing damage.  

Common noise risk factors

Your workplace may exceed safe noise levels if:

• Employees raise their voices to communicate at 1 metre distance.
• Machinery or tools like grinders, saws or compressors are in use.
• Vehicles or equipment produce constant high noise levels (e.g., mining, construction).
• Workers use hearing protection due to loud conditions.

Audiometric testing: the key to noise risk management  

Audiometric testing is mandatory for prescribed employers and helps to track changes in workers’ hearing over time. The testing process follows a structured timeline:  

• Baseline (reference) test – conducted within three months of an employee starting a role with noise exposure risks. Workers must undergo 16 hours of quiet time before the assessment. 
• Monitoring tests – conducted every two years (or more frequently if required) to detect early signs of hearing loss. Unlike the baseline test, quiet time before testing is not mandatory.  

Employers must ensure that these tests are conducted at approved locations with trained audiometry operators. 

Screening audiometry for workplace safety  

Screening audiometry, also known as pure tone audiometry, is a popular test run often run at pre-employment stage during the recruitment process. It is a basic hearing test that determines whether an employee meets a specific hearing standard for their job. While not legally required, many employers choose to include this test as part of pre-employment medical screenings, particularly in industries where hearing ability is critical (e.g., the rail sector).  

Legal responsibilities and compliance  

For businesses operating in prescribed workplaces, regulations mandate that employers must provide:  

1. Audiometric testing for workers frequently exposed to noise above the exposure standard.  
2. Personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of occupational noise-induced hearing loss.  

Failing to comply with these regulations not only puts employees at risk but can also lead to legal consequences and reputational damage for businesses. Employers should establish a structured noise management plan that includes periodic assessments and preventive measures.  

Next steps for employers  

1. Measure noise levels

You need audiometric testing if noise exposure reaches:

• 85 dB(A) averaged over 8 hours
• 140 dB(C) peak noise

You can measure noise levels with:

• Noise Level Apps & Noise Dosimeters – Use a basic decibel meter app or personal device to measure noise exposure.
• Professional Noise Assessment – Hire an Occupational Hygienist to conduct a professional noise assessment.

2. Identify common noise risk factors

Your workplace may exceed safe noise levels if:

• Employees raise their voices to communicate at one metre distance.
• Employees have a temporary reduction in hearing or ringing in the ears after leaving work for the day.
• Machinery or tools like grinders, saws or compressors are in use.
• Vehicles or equipment produce constant high noise levels (e.g., mining, construction).
• Workers use hearing protection due to loud conditions.

3. Conduct a workplace noise assessment

• If noise risks exist, conduct a formal noise assessment as per WHS regulations.
• This should be done by a qualified professional every five years or if conditions change.

4. Implement hearing testing (if required)

• Baseline test within three months of an employee starting in a noisy role
• Ongoing testing every two years for continued exposure

If you are unsure whether your workplace requires occupational noise monitoring, seek expert guidance. Conducting noise assessments can help determine your workplace’s exposure levels and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Additionally, consider implementing automated workflows to manage periodic medical screenings efficiently.  

How we can help

We provide comprehensive occupational noise management solutions to help businesses maintain safe and compliant workplaces. Our expert team supports employers with noise assessments, pre-employment medicals, audiometry testing and compliance monitoring. With a network of trained audiometry providers, we make the process seamless, ensuring that employees receive timely hearing assessments.  

Protect your workforce and stay compliant with workplace noise regulations. For more information, visit www.dhs.net.au 

March 2025 leave law summary – Canada
Legislative changes in Alberta.

March 2025 workers’ comp law summary – U.S.
Legislative changes for private employers and public entities in Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, New Mexico, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia, plus legislation to watch in Colorado.
 

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 29, 2025 — Sedgwick, the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, has launched a new evolution of its proprietary tool through an ongoing technology collaboration with Microsoft, using Azure OpenAI Service and Azure AI Document Intelligence. The tool, known as Sidekick Agent, is set to continue transforming the claims administration process by integrating generative AI, agentic AI orchestration and data science into Sedgwick’s global claims management systems.

“Enhancing and evolving Sidekick Agent to support clients and the needs of their customers and policyholders around the globe reinforces our position as the claim industry leader in leveraging AI,” said Mike Arbour, CEO at Sedgwick. “The foundational pillars of our technology strategy — unparalleled AI advancements, more than 50 years of real-world expertise and the industry’s richest data set — ensure our colleagues have the innovative tools needed to provide thoughtful, results-oriented solutions and address real-world challenges.” 

While the claims process has evolved incrementally over time, examiners’ workflows have remained largely unchanged. Sedgwick is driving a transformative shift forward with the introduction of Sidekick Agent, a new suite of agentic AI insights and capabilities providing real-time guidance to claims professionals at the desk level. Sidekick Agent promotes understanding of data science models, analytics around claim durations and reserves, and guidance into key next steps of the claim life cycle. It introduces efficiencies that streamline decision-making and lead to optimal claimant experiences, cost-effectiveness and claim outcomes.

“Thanks to our collaboration with Microsoft in developing Sidekick Agent, our colleagues can now devote their time to material and higher-level tasks that make a meaningful difference in the claims process,” said Leah Cooper, Global Chief Digital Officer at Sedgwick. “This latest advancement in GenAI provides real-time insights, mirrors the expertise of our stellar claims professionals, and further cements our position as the world’s premier claims administration partner.”    

Sidekick Agent has been integrated into the workflows and user interfaces of Sedgwick’s proprietary systems — giving examiners rapid claim insights, understanding of the day’s top priorities and forecasts of anticipated trajectories. This integration of Microsoft’s generative AI services, on the back of Sedgwick’s previous integration of Sidekick with ChatGPT technology, positions Agent as a key resource for claims professionals in responding to client requests and needs at a time when speed and efficiency are top priorities.

“Our collaboration with Sedgwick on Sidekick Agent showcases how generative AI can integrate with industry expertise to create smarter, more efficient tools for professionals,” said Bill Borden, Corporate Vice President, Worldwide Financial Services at Microsoft. “Combining Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, Azure AI Document Intelligence, and Sedgwick’s knowledge base streamlines processes and sets a new precedent for AI-driven advancements in claims and risk management.”  

A key aspect of Sidekick Agent, powered by agentic AI, is enhanced quality assurance, which is vital for ensuring consistency and compliance in the claims process. Further, as the insurance and risk management industry grapples with talent shortages, knowledge gaps and the retirement of seasoned experts, Sidekick is positioned to attract and support the next generation of claims professionals with real-time, AI-driven guidance that will prepare them for long-term success. 

Sidekick integrates with the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to support and enhance Sedgwick’s established claim management tools, as well as redefine claims processing by delivering unmatched efficiency and insights to claims professionals, claimants and clients. 

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

Simplifying the process

The resolution of workers’ compensation claims — in a way that limits future impact on your Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) rates, premium and discount options — depends on injured employees following a safe, quick path to recovery. In Ohio, managed care organizations (MCOs) work closely with employers, employees and physicians to facilitate timely, appropriate medical treatment. MCO case managers keep everyone focused on the return-to-work/return-to-life goal. Your connection to your MCO ensures lost workdays and costs are kept to a minimum. An MCO’s focus on recovery will help ensure the health and productivity of your workplace. 

At Sedgwick MCO, we simplify the claims process. We thoughtfully engage with physicians for better treatment options and medical outcomes. We pursue transitional and early return to work opportunities. We seek out medical savings. And we understand our clients’ business challenges, bringing industry-specific expertise, local connections, access to technology and data, and a depth of resources to care for their people and their performance. 

Controlling costs

Ohio employers pay workers’ compensation premiums to BWC based on the cost of claims, relative to organization size and payroll level. Lower claim costs yield lower rates and premiums, and lost time is the biggest cost driver in claims. An MCO that excels in facilitating timely and safe return to work is going to be an asset to employers seeking lower premium costs.  

Another hidden cost to employers is the absence of valuable and experienced employees. A high-performing MCO will help an injured employee navigate the treatment and recovery process and return to the workplace quickly, preserving productivity requirements and avoiding alternative labor costs to the employer. An MCO that rates highly in return-to-work efficiency supports lower direct and indirect costs to the employer.  

Providing expert guidance every step of the way

It’s important to choose an MCO that will quickly and safely lead injured employees on a path toward work and health. An MCO’s process and resources matter. MCOs guide the claims experience, influence outcomes, and impact an employer’s financial health. Choose an MCO who will be able to provide stable, consistent support over the next two years and beyond. 

Sedgwick MCO’s strength is the investment we make in clients’ overall experience and the care we take in supporting all aspects of their workers’ compensation programs. Our 400 employees across the state are part of customers’ communities, with expertise aligned to meet their needs. Our full-time, on site medical director provides clinical insight and assists with complex cases. Our bill review team finds opportunities to lower medical expenses, helping reduce costs applied to premium rates. And at Sedgwick MCO, caring counts – we simplify the claims process and serve as your trusted advisor.

The path forward

If you are an Ohio employer already working with Sedgwick MCO, you do not need to take any action during open enrollment. If you are not currently with Sedgwick MCO, don’t miss your opportunity to secure the best possible resources available. Learn more and enroll with us by May 23 at sedgwickmco.com.

Here are some highlights from their talk:

The rise of mental health visibility in workers’ comp.
Mental health has been part of the disability and accommodations space for years — particularly on the non-occupational side.

• In the years since COVID, mental health claims and care have been on the rise.
• Mental health concerns have taken a more prominent space in state legislatures, especially for first responders.
• Its presence in the workers’ compensation landscape is gaining even more traction, with societal attention and evolving legislation prompting the industry to take a closer look.
• Employers are encouraging more mental health and wellbeing treatments with digital health apps, telehealth appointments, access to behavioral specialists and more.

Mental health claims and state-by-state differences.
Mental health claims currently make up a small portion of overall workers’ compensation cases—less than 2%. With every state having its own legislation, many workers don’t know what kind of mental health claims are available to them and what is covered.

• Koonce describes two types of claims in the mental health space:
  • “Mental-mental”: mental health claims that don’t involve a physical injury.
  • “Physical-mental”: mental health claims that arise out of a physical injury that’s covered by worker’s compensation.
    
• Every state has different burdens of proof for what is allowed for each type of claim with little consistency.
• Most states still only allow mental health-related claims when tied to a physical injury (“physical-mental”).
• Data shows a slightly higher prevalence of “mental-mental” health claims than those tied to a physical injury. 
• Prevalence is strongly influenced by state legislation, with an increase in claim volume in states that permit “mental-mental” claim filings.

Early intervention means better outcomes.
One of the most important findings in this paper is that early behavioral health treatment leads to significantly better results.

• Intervention from a behavioral health specialist within the first 90 days of a claim reduced claim time by 60–70% — and led to more successful return-to-work outcomes. 
• Claims with delayed mental health treatment often lasted more than three times longer than those without mental health components.
• Treating mental health like any other comorbidity can lead to better recovery timelines and overall experiences for injured workers.

Overall, a holistic, case-by-case approach is preferred. Not every case is assigned a mental health worker and state laws vary, but they’re powerful tools to get better outcomes for workers.

Re-visit the paper, Unveiling the Hidden Struggles: Mental Health and Workers’ Compensation, here.

And listen to the whole conversation between George and Koonce here.

In the face of uncertainty, insurers, meteorologists and scientists are refining predictions, improving response strategies, and leveraging technology to streamline claims and recovery efforts. Advancements in forecasting, damage assessment and claims processing are making a real impact.

With the 2025 tornado season now underway, it’s vital to review forecasts, learn from past disasters, and adopt effective preparation measures. 

The forecast for 2025

Like the weather itself, tornado patterns have highs and lows. The 2024 tornado season was among the worst on record, with 1,855 tornadoes reported, including over 500 in May alone. We’ve already seen devastating storms hit the Midwest and South in 2025, with estimated damages in the hundreds of millions and more than 40 lives lost.

Overall, fewer tornadoes are expected this year, with an anticipated range of 1,300–1,450. Still, this estimate exceeds the historical average of 1,225, which underscores the ongoing risks communities face in tornado-prone areas. AccuWeather 2025 projections indicate expected tornado counts of 200–300 in April and 250–350 in May.

BankRate 2024 data highlights states with the highest insurance costs for residential tornado damage (based on $300,000 in dwelling coverage): Illinois, Alabama, Colorado, Texas, Mississippi and Nebraska.

Toward smarter solutions for tornado losses and recovery

The rise in tornado-associated losses has motivated the insurance industry to explore more effective and targeted solutions. We strive to move beyond simply issuing a check weeks after an incident. We’re aiming to reduce the time between acknowledging a claim and providing meaningful assistance, such as temporary housing, pet accommodations or meeting other immediate needs. 

There’s a growing recognition that managing catastrophe claims requires strategically allocating resources. Some claims may involve minor damage, like a missing shingle, while others result from tornadoes leveling entire neighborhoods. One way to manage this wide range of claims efficiently and thoughtfully is by leveraging advanced technology and digital tools to streamline processes and quickly get adjusters the information they need.

For instance, satellite-based measuring and dimensioning tools now provide adjusters with detailed property data — roof, window and gutter measurements — before they even visit a site. Additionally, intuitive intake tools replace outdated methods like faxes and emails, ensuring claim information reaches adjusters, housing specialists and other key resources immediately and seamlessly.

Carriers are also making strategic updates to underwriting practices. Peril-based deductibles, particularly for wind and hail damage, are becoming more common in high-risk areas. These tailored deductibles more closely align coverage with specific environmental risks.

Roof age is another critical factor in underwriting decisions. Insurers implement guidelines promoting preventive maintenance, often emphasizing partial replacement options. These measures help balance policy sustainability while encouraging property owners (both commercial and residential) to maintain resiliency against severe weather events.

Lessons from past catastrophes

Changes like these didn’t happen in a vacuum. They were informed by lessons learned and best practices perfected from past catastrophes. For example, the devastation caused by hurricanes like Helene and Milton in 2024 and the widespread destruction from California wildfires underscored the need for immediate documentation.

Another significant challenge has been assessing damage in areas that are difficult to access following a disaster. This has driven insurers to embrace drone technology, which has proven invaluable. Drones are being used to capture high-resolution images of damaged properties in real time, allowing insurers to determine the extent of loss quickly and accurately. In wildfire-affected regions of California, drones have helped adjusters and claims managers assess burned structures without waiting for emergency crews to clear hazardous debris. After hurricanes, drone surveys can map out flood damage and identify properties in need of immediate assistance, improving response times and minimizing disputes over coverage eligibility.

Promising technologies in disaster response and recovery

Digital tools are also reshaping how insurers communicate with policyholders. The adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced AI-powered technologies is revolutionizing disaster response by improving damage assessment and expediting claims processing. Innovations like our proprietary smart.ly platform simplify claim submissions, helping affected homeowners secure support quickly and efficiently. These advancements reflect the industry’s focus on leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance outcomes.

Other new tools are also reshaping recovery efforts. LIDAR (light detection and ranging) technology allows adjusters to perform detailed structural assessments with smartphones. At the same time, AI-driven image analysis automates the identification of structural vulnerabilities, reducing dependence on manual inspections. Meanwhile, next-generation disaster modeling and predictive analytics equip insurers and emergency responders with better tools to forecast hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires. By anticipating these events more accurately, resources can be strategically deployed in high-risk areas, enabling swift and effective responses.

However, it’s important to remember that technology may not be the only solution. In a disaster, access to laptops, cellphones and the internet may be down or intermittent. Deploying a remote call center staffed by experienced claims professionals may be the ideal solution and is often preferred by customers who prefer real-time human interaction during a crisis.

Making the right moves

Heightened awareness of recent catastrophes has inspired insurers and emergency management organizations to emphasize preparedness. Though tornado season is now in full swing, there’s still time to review current practices, ensure they are effectively implemented, and initiate a process to analyze and enhance future performance.

Insurers and claims professionals should work to: 

• Improve customer communication strategies: Provide multiple avenues for claims intake, including phone, email and online portals.
• Expand digital claim processing capabilities: Implement AI-driven tools to accelerate damage assessments and reduce manual processing times.
• Enhance catastrophe response plans: Prepare for dual-event scenarios by establishing contingency plans and securing additional adjusters in high-risk areas.
• Emphasize empathy and emotional intelligence: Claims adjusters are often the first point of contact for distressed homeowners — providing caring that counts is the right thing to do following a catastrophe and can significantly improve customer satisfaction.

Further, educating policyholders is critical in preparing for the remainder of tornado season. Key recommendations for homeowners and business owners include:

• Document property conditions before storm season: Take photos and videos of buildings and belongings to streamline future claims.
• Review your insurance policies: Understand new deductible structures and verify whether your coverage includes additional living expenses (ALE) in case of displacement.
• Develop an emergency response plan: Identify shelter locations, secure important documents, and create a communication plan for family members.
• Utilize available technology: Register for claims portals and familiarize yourself with digital intake processes to expedite submissions that may be needed.

Looking ahead

While hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires remain unpredictable, today’s insurance industry is better equipped to mitigate their impact. The integration of next-generation technology, enhanced policy structures and improved claims processes are making a tangible difference in how insurers respond to severe weather events. 

To continue to meet market needs, the focus must remain on preparation, adaptability and leveraging technology to drive efficient and effective disaster response. By learning from past experiences and embracing innovative solutions, insurers can ensure faster, more seamless recovery efforts — ultimately reducing financial losses and improving outcomes for carriers and their policyholders.

> Learn more — explore our catastrophe response solutions, and refer to our CAT resource center for the latest on storm season

“Protecting our clients and their honest customers from the cost of insurance fraud is a non-negotiable element of handling claims,” said Ian Carman, Director, Head of Forensic & Investigation Services for Sedgwick in the UK. “We place emphasis and focus on understanding the ever-evolving insurance fraud landscape and, in particular, the threats posed by fraudsters using technology to facilitate their economically damaging activity.”

Carman added: “I’m incredibly pleased that our unrelenting effort to identify and challenge dishonest claims has once again resulted in significant savings for our insurer clients in the UK. We continue to achieve these exceptional results by blending industry collaboration with highly skilled and ever-alert colleagues, supplemented by an ecosystem of sophisticated counter-fraud technologies.”

Sedgwick reported a rise in fraudulent activity involving increasingly intricate methods, including cross-border false claims supported by realistic-looking forged documents. These included fabricated bank statements, flight boarding passes, credible-looking holograms and foil strips – and even death certificates. The rise in availability of generative AI tools has made it easier for would-be fraudsters to produce convincing fake documentation, Sedgwick warned, highlighting the evolving nature of insurance fraud risk across all product lines and geographies.

Sedgwick also noted an increase in demand from multinational corporations, MGAs and captives looking to strengthen their fraud detection capabilities.“Insurance fraud is a daily crime with serious financial impact,” said Steve Crystal, Head of Fraud and Investigation Services, International. “This isn’t a victimless issue – as well as genuine customers, it strikes at the heart of global markets. Today, no one country dominates counter-fraud demand. We’re seeing appetite from all corners of the world, which is why our focus is on delivering ethical, proportionate investigations everywhere to help clients manage evolving risk, and to protect their customers from increased premiums attributable to fraud loss.”

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.