At times, the repercussions of a decision are immediately apparent. Driving a vehicle with a flat tire can result in irregular tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to provide a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not instantly apparent.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For example, failing to eat vegetables may not result in instant consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The genuine costs and connections might be unclear, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s delve into it.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?
According to researchers, about 15.5% of people 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.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Although governments have executed measures to minimize occupational health dangers, a staggering 22 million workers are still subjected to detrimental noise levels every year.
Another 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some professions.
What costs are connected with hearing loss?
The financial and personal ramifications of hearing loss might not be instantly apparent, but comprehending these repercussions is crucial for making educated decisions that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
The Better Hearing Institute discovered that individuals with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less yearly compared to those with healthy hearing. This could be attributed to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Injury which can result in temporary disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost fluctuates, but it can considerably increase overall health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a considerable financial strain
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow the safety rules established by your employer, which may include using earplugs, masks, or other protective equipment while at work. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Start open and polite discussions with your co-workers about work conditions that could lead to hearing issues. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- Use a sound meter app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s 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 may occur. If you detect a decline in your hearing, think about seeking a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal relationships. 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 shocking number of individuals with hearing loss – about one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to address their hearing problems. Additionally, 20% of people dealing with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
This interpersonal strain often expands to their professional performance. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. This solitude leaves them without a crucial support system when coping with illness, mental health issues, 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 individuals with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Minimizing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes critical to engage in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these suggestions:
Take proactive steps by consulting with a hearing specialist about your work environment and possible options for improving your hearing at work. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can result in substantial expenses, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.