Sometimes, the repercussions of a choice are readily apparent. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential expenses 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 just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For instance, failing to eat vegetables may not trigger immediate consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The actual costs and relationships might be uncertain, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the real cost of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?
According to researchers, around 15.5% of individuals in the US have trouble hearing. In addition, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. A small but significant four percent of people experience tinnitus so intense that it leaves them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. Even though governments have executed strategies to mitigate 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 exposed to hazardous substances in the workplace that could increase their hearing impairment. Some substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide are among the items listed. For people in specific professions, exposure to these substances is just a routine facet of their everyday tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary individual, but it’s important to understand them so you can make the most informed choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute discovered that individuals with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less each year compared to people with healthy hearing. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting into arguments because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Calling out of work frequently
- Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial effect on speeding up the degeneration of one’s overall health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be staggering
- Greater likelihood of accidental falls results in a substantial financial strain
- increasing likelihood of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow the safety rules 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 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 making threats and instead communicate honestly with your supervisors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider using a sound meter app on your mobile device, taking care to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Adhere 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 keep an eye on any changes that might happen. If you notice your hearing waning, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that’s not the end of the story.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing impairment frequently face difficulties with family and friends. Research shows that individuals dealing with 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 shocking number of people who have hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take actions to attend to their hearing problems. Furthermore, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to frequently misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
The tension in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. Those with untreated hearing loss face twice the likelihood of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. Their lack of relationships results in the absence of crucial support and comfort when dealing with sickness, mental health problems, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs related to medical issues
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in individuals with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Reducing your chance of hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide occurrence of hearing impairment, it is important to start open and productive conversations in the workplace. Check out these suggestions:
Consider getting expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Waiting for 7-10 years without getting help can result in substantial expenses, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.
