At times, the repercussions of a choice are immediately apparent. Operating a vehicle with a deflated tire can cause irregular tire degradation and possibly costly repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Ignoring routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately evident.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their existence. For instance, neglecting to eat vegetables may not cause immediate consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this latter category.
The actual costs and relationships may be uncertain, usually becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they certainly exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s take a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but considerable four percent of people experience tinnitus so intense that it renders them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Even though governments have implemented steps to mitigate occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million workers are still subjected to harmful noise levels annually.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to dangerous compounds in the workplace that could increase their hearing loss. Some substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide are among the items listed. For people in certain occupations, exposure to these substances is simply a normal aspect of their everyday tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the ordinary person, but it’s important to comprehend them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are disclosed to earn about $12,000 less annually than those with normal hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this might be clarified as follows. Studies suggest that having hearing impairment increases your risk of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Struggles in work performance
- Trouble hearing/understanding directives
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can bring about needless conflicts
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Social seclusion (cost fluctuates, but it can significantly increase overall health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Higher likelihood of accidental falls results in a substantial financial strain
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might contribute to hearing loss. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your supervisors.
- Utilize a sound meter app on your smartphone to conduct tests, evaluating the noise levels in your environment when it’s 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.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that might occur. If you notice your hearing waning, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Everyday costs
People dealing with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal relationships. According to a study, those with hearing loss tend to have more arguments within their families, with 33% attributing most of their disputes to their hearing loss.
A staggering number of people who have hearing loss – about one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take actions to attend to their hearing issues. Furthermore, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing impairment admit to frequently misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional performance. People with neglected hearing loss face double the probability of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. This isolation leaves them without a crucial support system when dealing with sickness, mental health issues, injuries, or diminishing health.
Costs associated with medical problems
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing related health problems that research has connected to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace discussions. Here are some recommendations:
Take practical actions by consulting with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for improving your hearing at work. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to considerable costs, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to delay action.