At times, the repercussions of a decision are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always immediately apparent.
But just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to eat vegetables, for example, may not have immediate consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this latter category.
Real costs and implications might not be immediately evident, often arising only after the fact. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s take a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?
According to studies, about 15.5% of people in the US have difficulty hearing. Additionally, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sound in the ears. A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it leaves them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. In spite of efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to dangerous noise levels each year.
Another 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. Certain compounds like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For people in certain professions, exposure to such substances is just a normal facet of their everyday tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal ramifications of hearing loss might not be immediately apparent, but grasping these consequences is crucial for making educated decisions that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn approximately $12,000 less yearly than people who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies suggest that having hearing loss raises your risk of:
- Injury which can cause short-term disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can result in needless conflicts
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can substantially increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
- Rising likelihood of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Adhere to all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might contribute to hearing loss. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about using a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Stick to suggested guidelines: 85 decibels for no more than 8 hours, 90 for no more than 2 hours, 95 for no more than 50 minutes, 100 for no more than 15 minutes, and 110 and above equals instant damage.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that might occur. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider seeking a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Costs in your day-to-day life
Individuals experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal relationships. Research reveals that people dealing with hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them linking most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A surprising one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce warning unless they seek assistance. Also, 20% of individuals dealing with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
The tension in their personal relationships can also affect their work productivity. People who do not manage their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. Their lack of connections results in the absence of essential help and comfort when experiencing sickness, mental health issues, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in individuals with neglected hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Reducing the chances of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these recommendations:
Take proactive steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and possible options for improving your hearing at work. Waiting for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to substantial costs, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is essential. The stakes are too high to delay action.