Sometimes, the consequences of a decision are readily obvious. Driving a vehicle with a flat tire can cause uneven tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Neglecting routine oil changes can result in engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily obvious.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their presence. For example, neglecting to eat vegetables might not result in immediate consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The genuine costs and relationships might be unclear, usually becoming apparent only in hindsight. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the actual cost of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s dive into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to researchers, around 15.5% of people in the US have trouble hearing. In addition, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government departments. Even though governments have implemented steps to minimize occupational health dangers, a staggering 22 million workers are still subjected to harmful noise levels annually.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. These include some cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some professions.
What costs are associated with hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary individual, but it’s significant to comprehend them so you can make the best decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than people who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Problems in job effectiveness
- Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can cause needless disputes
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but significant impact on accelerating the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be enormous
- Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
- Rising probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher probability of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Comply with the safety regulations set by your employer, which might include using earplugs, masks, or other safety equipment while working. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and polite discussions with your colleagues about work conditions that might lead to hearing problems. Replace aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when interacting with management.
- Utilize a sound meter app on your smartphone to conduct tests, assessing the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s safe to do so. Stick 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 monitor any changes that might occur. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that’s not the end of the story.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People with hearing loss often encounter difficulties with family and friends. Research reveals that individuals dealing with hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A staggering number of individuals who have hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take steps to address their hearing issues. Also, 20% of individuals dealing with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
This interpersonal strain frequently extends to their professional effectiveness. Those with neglected hearing loss face twice the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family.
Health-related costs
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing associated health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, such as:
It is essential to focus on your hearing now.
Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes critical to engage in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these suggestions:
Consider seeking expert advice from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Waiting for 7-10 years without getting help can result in significant expenses, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is essential. The stakes are too high to delay action.