Sometimes, the consequences of a decision are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily apparent.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. For instance, failing to eat vegetables may not trigger instant consequences, but eventually your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this last category.
The genuine costs and relationships might be unclear, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nonetheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
According to studies, about 15.5% of individuals in the US have difficulty hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government departments. Despite efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to dangerous noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being exposed to dangerous substances in the workplace that could increase their hearing impairment. Some compounds like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in certain professions, exposure to such substances is just a normal aspect of their daily tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the average person, but it’s significant to comprehend them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than individuals who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies indicate that having hearing impairment increases your chances of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can result in unnecessary disputes
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on accelerating the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a considerable financial burden
- increasing probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Several of these suggestions follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Initiate open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might contribute to hearing loss. Replace aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the recommended suggestions of 85 dB for a maximum of 8 hours, 90 decibels for no more than 2 hours, 95 decibels for no more than 50 minutes, 100 decibels for a maximum of 15 minutes, and sound levels of 110 and higher can cause immediate harm.
- Get a hearing test once a year to track changes over time. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your everyday life
Individuals experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to have difficulties in their personal connections. According to a study, individuals with hearing loss often engage in more disagreements within their families, with 33% attributing most of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.
A staggering number of individuals with hearing loss – about one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to address their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress often extends to their professional performance. People with neglected hearing loss face double the likelihood of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. This isolation leaves them without a crucial support system when coping with illness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.
Costs associated with medical problems
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in individuals with neglected hearing loss, including:
It is important to pay attention to your hearing now.
Reducing your risk of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these recommendations:
Take proactive steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for improving your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The stakes are too high to delay action.
