In some cases, the results of a decision are plainly visible. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately apparent.
But just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. For instance, failing to eat vegetables might not trigger instant consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
A perfect illustration of this is work-related hearing loss.
The genuine costs and connections might be unclear, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. Additionally, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so intense that it leaves them unable to hear.
24% of these outcomes 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 harmful noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to harmful substances in the workplace that could increase 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 occupations.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The economic and personal ramifications of hearing loss might not be instantly apparent, but comprehending these repercussions is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
The Better Hearing Institute discovered that individuals with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less annually compared to those who have healthy hearing. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work regularly
- Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on accelerating the deterioration of one’s overall health.
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a considerable financial strain
- increasing probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, such as wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and courteous dialogues with your colleagues about work conditions that might lead to hearing problems. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your managers.
- Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s safe to do so. Adhere to recommended 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 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 think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that’s not the end of the story.
Everyday costs
People experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal relationships. Research reveals that people dealing with hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A staggering number of individuals who have hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to address their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal strain frequently expands to their professional effectiveness. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. Their lack of connections leads to the absence of crucial help and comfort when dealing with illness, mental health issues, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in individuals with neglected hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Minimizing the odds of experiencing hearing loss
With the escalating worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is important to start open and productive discussions in the workplace. Check out these suggestions:
Consider seeking expert advice 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 crucial to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.