In some cases, the outcomes of a choice are clearly evident. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can result in irregular tire wear and possibly costly repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to costly engine damage.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not immediately evident.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t void their presence. Failing to consume vegetables, for example, might not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually diminish.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The genuine costs and connections might be unclear, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the real cost of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s dive into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Additionally, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. In spite of efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to hazardous noise levels each year.
Another 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. Some compounds like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in specific professions, exposure to these substances is simply a normal facet of their everyday tasks.
What costs are connected with hearing loss?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss may not be immediately apparent, but comprehending these consequences is essential for making educated choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed 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 may be explained as follows. Studies show that having hearing impairment increases your chances of:
- Injury which can result in short-term disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can result in needless disputes
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but significant effect on accelerating the deterioration of one’s overall health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be staggering
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a substantial financial strain
- increasing likelihood of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Adhere to all safety standards mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and courteous dialogues with your colleagues about work conditions that could lead to hearing problems. Substitute aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when interacting with management.
- Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, assessing the noise levels in your surroundings 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 might occur. If you notice your hearing getting worse, 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 impairment often face challenges with family and friends. According to a study, those who have hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.
A surprising one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce ultimatum unless they seek assistance. Furthermore, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
The strain in their personal relationships can also affect their work productivity. People who do not address their hearing loss are two times 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, encompassing the costs of managing associated health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to focus on your hearing now.
Reducing your chance of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace discussions. Check out these recommendations:
Consider finding expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential solutions 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 consequences of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.
