At times, the repercussions of a decision are readily apparent. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, results in tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in costly engine damage.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily obvious.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, may not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually diminish.
A great example of this is occupational hearing loss.
The genuine costs and relationships may be unclear, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to studies, about 15.5% of people in the US have difficulty hearing. Additionally, another 8% of individuals 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.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government departments. Although governments have implemented measures to minimize occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to harmful noise levels annually.
An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being subjected to hazardous compounds in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing loss. These include some cleaning solutions, 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 might not be instantly obvious, but grasping these repercussions is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less yearly than people who have healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies indicate that having hearing loss raises your risk of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can bring about unnecessary conflicts
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Calling out of work regularly
- Social isolation (cost varies, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial strain
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Higher likelihood of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Numerous of these recommendations follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might contribute to hearing loss. Replace aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, think about utilizing a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the recommended suggestions 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.
- Get a hearing test every year to track changes over time. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing loss frequently encounter challenges with family and friends. Research reveals that people dealing with 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 people with hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to address their hearing problems. Also, 20% of people dealing with hearing loss confess to regularly deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
The tension in their personal relationships can also affect their work productivity. Individuals who do not manage their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones.
Costs associated with medical problems
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing associated health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Minimizing the odds of experiencing hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide incidence of hearing impairment, it is essential to start open and productive conversations in the workplace. Check out these suggestions:
Consider getting expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore possible solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without getting help can result in substantial expenses, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.