In some cases, the outcomes of a choice are clearly visible. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to costly engine damage.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not instantly evident.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For instance, neglecting to eat vegetables might not cause instant repercussions, but eventually your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this latter category.
Real expenses and implications may not be immediately apparent, often arising only after the fact. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. In spite of efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to harmful noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. Certain substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in certain occupations, exposure to these substances is just a normal aspect of their daily tasks.
What costs are associated with hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary person, but it’s significant to understand them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Costs in the workplace
People who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less yearly than people who have healthy hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding directives
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Rising probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- 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 equipment while at work. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and polite dialogues with your co-workers about work conditions that might result in hearing issues. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to carry out 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.
- Have a hearing test every year to keep an eye on any changes that may happen. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
People with hearing impairment frequently experience challenges with family and friends. According to a study, those who have hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating most of their disputes to their hearing loss.
A shocking number of people who have hearing loss – about one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to deal with their hearing problems. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing impairment admit to frequently misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently extends to their professional performance. Those with untreated hearing loss face twice the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. This isolation leaves them without a crucial support system when dealing with illness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.
Health-related costs
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing associated health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, such as:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment
With the increasing worldwide occurrence of hearing impairment, it is essential to initiate open and productive conversations in the workplace. Check out these suggestions:
Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have significant financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The stakes are too high to delay action.