Sometimes, the consequences of a choice are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Neglecting regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily apparent.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their presence. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, may not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A perfect example of this is occupational hearing loss.
The genuine costs and relationships may be unclear, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the real cost of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but significant four percent of people experience tinnitus so severe that it leaves them unable to hear.
Government agencies approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Even though governments have implemented measures to mitigate occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to hazardous noise levels every year.
Another 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. Certain substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a dangerous gas called carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in certain professions, exposure to such substances is just a routine aspect of their daily tasks.
What expenses are associated with hearing impairment?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary individual, but it’s important to comprehend them so you can make the most informed decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
Individuals who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than those who have healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Injury which can result in short-term disability
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting involved in arguments because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on speeding up the degeneration of one’s overall health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- increasing probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow all safety standards mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA regulations that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may contribute to hearing loss. Substitute aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when interacting with management.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, think about utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is 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 higher equals instant damage.
- Get a hearing test annually to keep track of changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider pursuing a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing impairment frequently experience challenges with family and friends. According to a study, individuals who have hearing loss often engage in more arguments within their families, with 33% attributing most of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A staggering number of individuals with hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to deal with their hearing problems. Additionally, 20% of people dealing with hearing loss confess to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
The tension in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. Those with untreated hearing loss face twice the likelihood of becoming socially secluded from friends and family.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in people with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these suggestions:
Consider getting expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have substantial financial consequences, making it crucial to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.