The application of insert earphones for annual audiometry was evaluated in an on‐going occupational hearing conservation program. For four consecutive years employees were given an extra left‐ear audiogram using a 3A‐type insert earphone immediately after completing their standard annual audiograms using TDH‐49 earphones in supra‐aural cushions. For the final 3 yr an additional left‐ear audiogram using the TDH‐49 earphone was given last, to control for order effects. Sixty employees participated all 4 yr. Analysis of thresholds obtained each year using each earphone indicated that small threshold correction factors for the insert earphone are necessary at each frequency (not just at 6 and 8 kHz) to allow results to be compared directly to supra‐aural earphone thresholds. The manufacturer's suggested 10‐dB correction factor at 8 kHz appeared too small for the particular combination of TDH‐49 and insert earphones used. Standard deviations of thresholds between individuals were similar for both earphones. Year‐to‐year repeatability of thresholds within individuals was equivalent with both earphones. As long as absolute calibration is accounted for, insert earphones are a viable alternative transducer for audiometry in hearing conservation.