Sometimes, the repercussions of a choice are immediately obvious. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can cause uneven tire wear and possibly expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Neglecting routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with connections not immediately evident.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, might not have immediate consequences, but your health will eventually diminish.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this last category.
Real expenses and ramifications may not be immediately evident, often arising only after the fact. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the real price of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s dig into it.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. Additionally, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. In spite of efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to harmful noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to dangerous compounds in the workplace that could increase their hearing loss. These include some cleaning solutions, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some occupations.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the average individual, but it’s significant to comprehend them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
Individuals who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than those with healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies suggest that having hearing impairment increases your chances of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting involved in arguments because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + missed workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Higher likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial burden
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow the safety rules established by your employer, which may include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other protective devices while working. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA regulations that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Start open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may contribute to hearing loss. Replace aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when communicating with management.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about using a sound meter app on your mobile device, taking care to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Adhere 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 higher equals immediate damage.
- Undergo a hearing test once a year to track changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, think about pursuing a safer work environment.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People with hearing impairment frequently face challenges with family and friends. Research reveals that people experiencing hearing loss are more likely to have disputes 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 spouse has given a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to frequently misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress often expands to their professional effectiveness. People who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones. This solitude leaves them without a critical support system when coping with illness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.
Costs related to medical problems
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing related health problems that research has connected to untreated hearing loss, such as:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Decreasing your risk of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace discussions. Check out these suggestions:
Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Waiting for 7-10 years without getting help can lead to considerable costs, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.