Sometimes, the outcomes of a choice are plainly evident. Driving a vehicle with a flat tire can cause irregular tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not instantly evident.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, might not have instant complications, but your health will eventually decline.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this last category.
The actual costs and relationships may be unclear, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nonetheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dig into it.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some degree of hearing trouble. Additionally, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe 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 control 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. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some professions.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss may not be instantly apparent, but grasping these repercussions is crucial for making informed decisions that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
The Better Hearing Institute discovered that people with neglected hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less yearly in comparison to those with normal 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
- Struggles in work effectiveness
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting involved in arguments because of something you think somebody 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 accelerating the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a substantial financial burden
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow the safety regulations set by your employer, which may include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other protective equipment while working. Several of these suggestions follow OSHA regulations that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Start open and courteous discussions with your co-workers about work conditions that might result in hearing issues. Replace aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about using a sound meter application on your mobile device, taking care to perform 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 instant damage.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that may happen. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider finding a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Everyday costs
People with hearing loss frequently face challenges with family and friends. Research reveals that individuals experiencing hearing loss are more likely to have disputes within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A shocking number of individuals with hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take actions to deal with their hearing issues. Additionally, 20% of people with hearing loss admit to regularly deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
This interpersonal strain frequently expands to their professional performance. Those with untreated hearing loss face double the likelihood of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. Their lack of relationships leads to the absence of crucial support and comfort when facing sickness, mental health issues, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing associated health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Decreasing your chance of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace conversations. Here are some suggestions:
Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without getting help can lead to significant costs, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.