At times, the repercussions of a decision are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, results in tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in expensive engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not instantly evident.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t void their presence. For instance, neglecting to eat vegetables might not trigger immediate repercussions, but eventually your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The actual costs and connections may be uncertain, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the real cost of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s dive into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to studies, about 15.5% of individuals in the US have trouble hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it renders them unable to hear.
Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Although governments have implemented strategies to reduce occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to harmful noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. Some substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas known as carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in certain professions, exposure to these substances is simply a routine facet of their everyday tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal ramifications of hearing loss may not be immediately obvious, but grasping these repercussions is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Workplace costs
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less annually than those who have healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Harm that might cause a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost fluctuates, but it can substantially increase overall health decline rate)
- 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 considerable financial strain
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Initiate open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may contribute to hearing loss. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about using a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Stick to recommended 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 higher equals immediate damage.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that may occur. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t end there.
Everyday expenses
People with hearing impairment often encounter difficulties with family and friends. Research shows that individuals dealing with hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A shocking number of individuals with hearing loss – about one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to deal with their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional effectiveness. Individuals who do not manage their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. Their lack of relationships leads to the absence of essential support and comfort when facing sickness, mental health issues, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common 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 prevalence of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace conversations. Here are some suggestions:
Consider finding expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can result in substantial costs, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to delay action.