Sometimes, the repercussions of a decision are immediately obvious. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, results in tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to provide a regular oil change schedule can lead to costly engine damage.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their implications not always immediately apparent.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For instance, neglecting to eat vegetables may not result in immediate consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
A perfect illustration of this is work-related hearing loss.
The actual costs and connections might be uncertain, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dig into it.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some degree of hearing trouble. Additionally, 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 severe that it leaves them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Despite efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to harmful noise levels each year.
Another 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. These include certain cleaning solutions, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some line of work.
What costs are associated with hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the average person, but it’s important to comprehend them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Costs in the workplace
Individuals who do not deal with their hearing loss are disclosed to earn about $12,000 less yearly than individuals with healthy hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be clarified as follows. Studies indicate that having hearing impairment raises your risk of:
- Injury which can cause short-term disability
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding directives
- Getting involved in disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work regularly
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can considerably increase overall health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a substantial financial strain
- Rising probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow the safety rules set by your employer, which might include using earplugs, masks, or other protective equipment while at work. 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 result in hearing loss. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider using a sound meter application 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 above 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 pursuing a safer work environment.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People dealing with untreated hearing loss are more likely to have difficulties in their personal relationships. Research shows that people 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 staggering number of people who have hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to attend to their hearing problems. Additionally, 20% of individuals with hearing loss confess to regularly deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
The strain in their personal relationships can also affect their work productivity. People who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. Their lack of connections results in the absence of essential help and comfort when dealing with sickness, mental health issues, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in people with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Decreasing your risk of hearing loss
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace discussions. Check out these recommendations:
Take proactive steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and possible options for improving your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have substantial financial repercussions, making it crucial to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The stakes are too high to delay action.