In some cases, the outcomes of a choice are plainly visible. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can cause uneven tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Neglecting regular oil changes can result in engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their implications not always immediately obvious.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to eat vegetables, for example, may not have immediate complications, but your health will eventually diminish.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this last category.
Real expenses and implications may not be immediately evident, frequently emerging only after the fact. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the actual 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 approximately one in six Americans experience some degree of hearing trouble. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Despite efforts by the government to control 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 exacerbate their hearing impairment. 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 economic and personal implications of hearing loss may not be immediately apparent, but grasping these repercussions is crucial for making educated choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
The Better Hearing Institute found that people with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less every year compared to those who have healthy hearing. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Trouble hearing/understanding directives
- Getting involved in arguments because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Missing work
- Social isolation (cost varies, but it can considerably increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- increasing probability of on the job injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Adhere to all safety standards mandated by your employer, such as using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Initiate open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may contribute to hearing loss. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, taking care to perform 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.
- Get a hearing test once a year to keep track of changes over time. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People with hearing impairment frequently encounter challenges with family and friends. According to a study, people who have hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% attributing the majority of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A shocking number of people with hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to attend to their hearing problems. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal strain often extends to their professional effectiveness. People who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones.
Costs related to medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing associated health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, such as:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing loss
With the escalating worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is essential to start open and productive conversations in the workplace. Here are some suggestions:
Take practical steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have significant financial consequences, making it crucial to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.