Sometimes, the repercussions of a choice are immediately apparent. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, results in tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Neglecting regular oil changes can result in engine failure.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not instantly evident.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their presence. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, might not have instant complications, but your health will eventually decline.
A perfect example of this is work-related hearing loss.
Actual costs and implications may not be instantly evident, often arising only after the fact. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dig into it.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but considerable four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so intense that it renders them unable to hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Even though governments have executed strategies to mitigate occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to hazardous noise levels every year.
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 simply part of a day’s work in some line of work.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary individual, but it’s important to understand them so you can make the best choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute found that people with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less each year in comparison to those with normal hearing. This could be attributed to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Struggles in work performance
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can bring about needless disputes
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work regularly
- Social seclusion (cost varies, but it can considerably increase overall health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be staggering
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Rising probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, such as wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might result in hearing loss. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, think about utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, taking care to carry out the tests only when it is 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 keep an eye on any changes that might occur. If you notice your hearing waning, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that’s not the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
People experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal connections. According to a study, people who have hearing loss tend to have more disagreements within their families, with 33% attributing the majority of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
An alarming one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their spouse has given a divorce ultimatum unless they seek assistance. Furthermore, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to regularly misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
The strain in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. People with untreated hearing loss face double the likelihood of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. This seclusion leaves them without a critical support system when coping with sickness, depression, injuries, or declining health.
Costs associated with medical problems
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in people with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Decreasing your chance of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace dialogues. Here are some recommendations:
Take practical actions by consulting with a hearing specialist about your work environment and possible options for improving your hearing at work. Waiting for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to substantial expenses, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is essential. The stakes are too high to postpone action.