Sometimes, the outcomes of a choice are clearly evident. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always immediately obvious.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their presence. For instance, failing to eat vegetables might not result in instant consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this last category.
Real costs and ramifications may not be instantly evident, often emerging only after the fact. Nonetheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some degree 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 renders them unable to hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Despite efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to dangerous noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some occupations.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss might not be immediately apparent, but grasping these repercussions is crucial for making informed decisions that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute found that individuals with neglected hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less yearly in comparison to those with healthy hearing. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Injury which can lead to temporary disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can result in unnecessary disputes
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Calling out of work regularly
- Social solitude (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+)
- increasing probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Adhere to all safety standards mandated by your employer, such as wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Numerous of these suggestions follow OSHA regulations that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
- Begin open and courteous discussions with your colleagues about work conditions that might lead to hearing problems. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your supervisors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, making sure to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the recommended suggestions of 85 dB for a maximum of 8 hours, 90 decibels for no more than 2 hours, 95 decibels for no more than 50 minutes, 100 decibels for a maximum of 15 minutes, and sound levels of 110 and higher can cause immediate harm.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that may occur. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
People experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to have difficulties in their personal connections. Research shows that people experiencing hearing loss are more likely to have disputes within their families, with 33% of them linking most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A surprising one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their partner has issued a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Additionally, 20% of individuals dealing with hearing loss confess to regularly deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
This interpersonal strain frequently expands to their professional effectiveness. Individuals who do not manage their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones.
Costs related to medical problems
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing associated health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Decreasing your risk of hearing loss
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes critical to engage in meaningful workplace dialogues. 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 significant financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.
