Sometimes, the outcomes of a choice are clearly evident. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, 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 readily obvious.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, might not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A great illustration of this is work-related hearing loss.
The actual costs and connections may be uncertain, usually becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, 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 prevalent?
According to studies, around 15.5% of people in the US have difficulty hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it leaves them unable to hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Although governments have executed strategies to reduce occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to detrimental noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being subjected to harmful compounds in the workplace that could increase their hearing impairment. Some substances like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in specific occupations, exposure to such substances is just a routine aspect of their daily tasks.
What costs are associated with hearing impairment?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss may not be instantly apparent, but comprehending these consequences is essential for making educated choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Workplace costs
Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less yearly than people with normal hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Injury which can cause temporary disability
- Struggles in job effectiveness
- Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social isolation (cost fluctuates, but it can considerably increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Comply with the safety regulations set by your employer, which may include using earplugs, masks, or other protective equipment while working. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Begin open and courteous dialogues with your co-workers about work conditions that might lead to hearing issues. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider using a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the suggested recommendations 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 might happen. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that’s not the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
Individuals experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal relationships. According to a study, individuals who have hearing loss tend to engage in more arguments within their families, with 33% attributing the majority of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A surprising one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their spouse has issued a divorce ultimatum unless they seek assistance. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional performance. Those with neglected hearing loss face twice the likelihood of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. Their lack of connections results in the absence of essential assistance and comfort when experiencing sickness, mental health issues, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs related to medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing related health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Decreasing your risk of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these suggestions:
Consider finding expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore potential solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without getting help can result in significant costs, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is essential. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.
