In some cases, the outcomes of a choice are plainly visible. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can cause uneven tire wear and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Ignoring routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not instantly apparent.
But just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, may not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
Work-related hearing loss comes under this last category.
The genuine costs and connections may be uncertain, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the real price of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s dive into it.
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). 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. Even though governments have executed steps to mitigate occupational health dangers, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to hazardous noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to dangerous compounds in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing impairment. These include some cleaning solutions, 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 costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary person, but it’s important to comprehend them so you can make the most informed choice for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
People who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less yearly than those who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this might be clarified as follows. Studies show that having hearing impairment increases your chances of:
- Injury which can result in temporary disability
- Problems in work effectiveness
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting involved in disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but substantial effect on accelerating the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
- Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Higher probability of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Follow all safety standards 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 safeguard your well-being.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may contribute to hearing loss. Substitute aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when communicating with management.
- Use a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, assessing the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s 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.
- Undergo a hearing test every year to keep track of changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, think about finding a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing impairment frequently encounter difficulties with family and friends. Research reveals that individuals 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 people with hearing loss reports that their spouse has issued a divorce warning unless they seek assistance. Also, 20% of individuals with hearing loss admit to regularly deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
This interpersonal stress often expands to their professional performance. People who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones.
Costs associated with medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, including the costs of managing associated health problems that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, such as:
It is essential to focus on your hearing now.
Decreasing your chance of hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is essential to start open and productive discussions in the workplace. Check out these recommendations:
Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential solutions to enhance your hearing on the job. Waiting for 7-10 years without seeking help can lead to significant costs, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is essential. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.