Sometimes, the results of a decision are plainly visible. Operating a vehicle with a flat tire can result in irregular tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in costly engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately evident.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, may not have immediate complications, but your health will eventually diminish.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this latter category.
The genuine costs and connections may be unclear, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the actual price of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s have a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some degree of hearing trouble. Additionally, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. A small but considerable four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it renders them unable to hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Despite efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being exposed to harmful substances in the workplace that could increase their hearing impairment. Certain substances like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For people in certain professions, exposure to these substances is just a normal aspect of their everyday tasks.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the average person, but it’s significant to understand them so you can make the most informed choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less annually than people with healthy 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 increases your risk of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can cause unnecessary conflicts
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social seclusion (cost fluctuates, 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)
- Higher likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial burden
- increasing likelihood of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Several of these suggestions follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to protect 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.
- 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. Adhere 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 above equals instant damage.
- Have a hearing test every year to keep an eye on any changes that may occur. If you detect a decline in your hearing, think about finding a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Everyday costs
People dealing with neglected hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal relationships. According to a study, those who have hearing loss often have more arguments within their families, with 33% associating most of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.
A staggering number of people who have hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to address their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing impairment admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional effectiveness. People who do not manage their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones. This solitude leaves them without a crucial support system when coping with sickness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.
Costs associated with medical issues
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in individuals with untreated hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing impairment
With the escalating worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is essential to initiate open and productive conversations in the workplace. Here are some recommendations:
Consider finding expert help from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have significant financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.