Sometimes, the outcomes of a choice are clearly visible. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, results in tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Ignoring routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always immediately obvious.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, may not have immediate complications, but your health will eventually diminish.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The actual costs and relationships might be uncertain, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the actual price of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s have a closer look.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to researchers, about 15.5% of people in the US have difficulty hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.
Government agencies estimate 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 harmful noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being subjected to dangerous compounds in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing loss. These include some cleaning solutions, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some occupations.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the ordinary person, but it’s significant to understand them so you can make the best choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than people with normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Injury which can cause temporary disability
- Problems in job effectiveness
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can lead to unnecessary conflicts
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can considerably increase overall health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Greater likelihood of accidental falls results in a considerable financial strain
- increasing probability of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow the safety rules established by your employer, which might include using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices while working. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might result in hearing loss. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about utilizing a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Follow the suggested recommendations 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 getting worse, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Everyday costs
Individuals experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal relationships. According to a study, individuals with hearing loss often engage in more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A shocking number of individuals with hearing loss – about one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take steps to address their hearing issues. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing loss admit to regularly misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
The tension in their personal relationships can also impact their work efficiency. People who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones. Their lack of connections results in the absence of crucial assistance and comfort when facing sickness, mental health problems, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Health-related costs
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, such as:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these suggestions:
Consider seeking expert help from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial consequences, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The stakes are too high to delay action.
