Sometimes, the results of a decision are clearly evident. Operating a vehicle with a flat tire can cause irregular tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their implications not always immediately obvious.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For instance, failing to eat vegetables may not trigger immediate repercussions, but eventually your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this latter category.
The genuine costs and connections may be uncertain, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they certainly exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. In addition, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sound in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Although governments have implemented strategies to mitigate occupational health dangers, a staggering 22 million workers are still exposed to harmful noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being subjected to hazardous compounds in the workplace that could increase their hearing loss. These include some cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some occupations.
What costs are associated with hearing impairment?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the average individual, but it’s important to understand them so you can make the most informed choice for your health and well-being.
Costs in the workplace
People who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than individuals who have healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Harm that may cause a temporary incapacity
- Problems in work performance
- Trouble hearing/understanding directives
- Getting into arguments because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on speeding up the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Higher likelihood of accidental falls results in a significant financial strain
- Rising probability 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, such as wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Begin open and courteous discussions with your co-workers about work conditions that could lead to hearing problems. Substitute aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
- Use a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your environment when it’s 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.
- Have a hearing test every year to keep an eye on any changes that may occur. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t end there.
Everyday expenses
Individuals experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal connections. Research reveals that individuals 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 staggering number of individuals who have hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take steps to address their hearing problems. Also, 20% of individuals with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional performance. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. This seclusion leaves them without a vital support system when dealing with sickness, depression, injuries, or declining health.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in people with untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Decreasing your chance of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these recommendations:
Consider getting expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have substantial financial repercussions, making it crucial to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.