At times, the repercussions of a choice are readily obvious. Operating a vehicle with a deflated tire can result in irregular tire wear and potentially expensive repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in expensive engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not instantly evident.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. For instance, failing to eat vegetables might not trigger instant repercussions, but inevitably your health will suffer.
A perfect illustration of this is job-related hearing loss.
The genuine costs and connections might be unclear, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they certainly exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s delve into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. In addition, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sound in the ears. A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it renders them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. Despite efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to dangerous noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some line of work.
What costs are associated with hearing impairment?
The economic and personal implications of hearing loss might not be instantly obvious, but comprehending these repercussions is essential for making informed decisions that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Workplace costs
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn approximately $12,000 less yearly than individuals who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this might be clarified as follows. Studies indicate that having hearing impairment raises your chances of:
- Injury which can cause short-term disability
- Problems in work effectiveness
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can considerably increase overall health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Initiate open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may result in hearing loss. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- 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. Stick 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.
- Undergo a hearing test annually to keep track of changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, think about seeking a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Everyday costs
Individuals dealing with untreated hearing loss are more likely to have difficulties in their personal relationships. According to a study, individuals who have hearing loss often engage in more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating most of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A shocking number of people with hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to deal with their hearing problems. Also, 20% of individuals with hearing loss confess to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
This interpersonal strain frequently extends to their professional effectiveness. Individuals who do not manage their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones. This seclusion leaves them without a vital support system when coping with illness, depression, injuries, or diminishing health.
Costs associated with medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing related health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Decreasing your risk of hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide occurrence of hearing impairment, it is important to initiate open and productive discussions in the workplace. Check out these recommendations:
Take practical steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Waiting for 7-10 years without getting help can lead to significant expenses, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is essential. The stakes are too high to postpone action.