In some cases, the outcomes of a choice are plainly visible. Operating a vehicle with a deflated tire can result in uneven tire wear and potentially expensive repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with connections not instantly evident.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. For example, failing to eat vegetables might not trigger instant repercussions, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
Real expenses and implications may not be immediately evident, often arising only after the fact. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s take a closer look.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies indicate that approximately one in six Americans experience some degree of hearing difficulty. Additionally, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sound in the ears. A small but considerable four percent of people experience tinnitus so intense that it renders them unable to hear.
Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. Although governments have executed steps to reduce occupational health dangers, a staggering 22 million workers are still exposed to detrimental noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. Certain compounds like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For people in specific professions, exposure to such substances is just a routine facet of their everyday tasks.
What expenses are associated with hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the ordinary individual, but it’s important to comprehend them so you can make the best choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute found that people with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less every year compared to people with healthy hearing. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies show that having hearing impairment raises your risk of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can lead to unnecessary disputes
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social seclusion (cost varies, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- increasing probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow the safety regulations established by your employer, which might include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other safety equipment while at work. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and polite conversations with your colleagues about work conditions that might result in hearing issues. Substitute aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when interacting with management.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the suggested recommendations of 85 dB for a maximum of 8 hours, 90 decibels for no more than 2 hours, 95 decibels for no more than 50 minutes, 100 decibels for a maximum of 15 minutes, and sound levels of 110 and higher can cause immediate harm.
- Undergo a hearing test every year to track changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider seeking a safer work environment.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People with hearing loss frequently face challenges with family and friends. Research shows that people experiencing 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 – about one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to address their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
The strain in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. This solitude leaves them without a critical support system when dealing with sickness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.
Costs related to medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing associated health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to pay attention to your hearing now.
Reducing your risk of hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide occurrence of hearing impairment, it is essential to start open and productive discussions in the workplace. Check out these recommendations:
Take practical actions by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to considerable costs, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to postpone action.