At times, the consequences of a decision are immediately obvious. Driving a vehicle with a flat tire can result in uneven tire wear and potentially costly repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in costly engine damage.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily apparent.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t void their existence. Failing to eat vegetables, for example, may not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A perfect illustration of this is occupational hearing loss.
The actual costs and relationships may be unclear, usually becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s take a closer look.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing trouble. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. Despite efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to dangerous substances in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some professions.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss might not be immediately obvious, but grasping these consequences is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less yearly than individuals who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Problems in work performance
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting into arguments because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can significantly increase overall health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Rising likelihood of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Adhere to all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, such as using earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA regulations that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Start open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might contribute to hearing loss. Avoid threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, think about using 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.
- Get a hearing test every year to track changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider finding a safer work environment.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
People with hearing loss often encounter challenges with family and friends. According to a study, those who have hearing loss tend to engage in more arguments within their families, with 33% attributing most of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A surprising one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce warning unless they get help. Also, 20% of people dealing with hearing loss confess to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
This interpersonal strain frequently extends to their professional performance. People who do not manage their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones. This seclusion leaves them without a vital support system when dealing with sickness, depression, injuries, or declining health.
Costs associated with medical problems
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in people with neglected hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Reducing your risk of hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these suggestions:
Consider finding expert help from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to significant expenses, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to delay action.