The Hidden Costs of Mobile Van Audiometric Testing and a Smarter Alternative

The Real Costs Behind Mobile Van Hearing Tests

While mobile vans seem convenient, their pricing model can quickly become expensive—especially in workplaces with turnover or scheduling issues.

Common Challenges:

• You pay per test. If your workforce changes often, you're constantly rebilling for new baselines or retests.
• Follow-up services add cost. Standard Threshold Shift (STS) reviews and retests are often billed separately.
• Gaps in compliance. Employees who miss the scheduled test window may go untested, creating regulatory risk.
• Limited visibility. Reports are often delivered manually and can be delayed or hard to access.
• Minimal oversight. Many van services don’t include audiology review or ongoing compliance support.

This reactive approach makes it hard to plan and easy to overspend.

A Better Model with Soundtrace

Soundtrace uses a modern enrollment mode (like a subscription) where you pay based on how many employees are in your hearing conservation program, not how many are tested.

What’s included:

• Predictable annual pricing tied to your actual headcount.
• No extra charges for retests, STS follow-up, or audiology review.
• Real-time tracking and reporting via a digital platform.
• Flexible testing options
• Ongoing oversight and employee education to reduce risk.

Instead of a once-a-year van visit, you get year-round support and better visibility into hearing risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is mobile van audiometric testing?

Mobile van audiometric testing is when a service provider brings a soundproof booth to your location to test employees’ hearing during scheduled events.

Why does mobile van testing often cost more than expected?

You typically pay per test. If you need retests, baseline tests for new hires, or clinical review of results, those may cost extra. These fees can add up over time.

Does mobile van testing meet OSHA standards?

Yes, but only at the time of testing. If employees miss their scheduled test or if follow-up isn’t properly managed, you may fall out of compliance.

What happens if an employee misses the van visit?

They often have to wait for the next scheduled event, which could delay their testing and create compliance gaps. This can also add several hours of lost time for off-site clinic visits.

How is Soundtrace different from mobile testing?

Soundtrace offers continuous hearing program management. You get digital tools, clinical oversight, flexible testing, and a fixed annual price based on your headcount, not test volume.

Can Soundtrace support remote or multiple-site teams?

Yes. Soundtrace supports remote, onsite, and self-administered testing, making it a better fit for distributed workforces.