At times, the consequences of a decision are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, leads to tire wear and potential costs for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in costly engine damage.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their implications not always readily obvious.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. For instance, failing to eat vegetables might not result in immediate consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The genuine costs and connections might be uncertain, often becoming obvious only in hindsight. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dive into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so intense that it leaves them unable to 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 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 impairment. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some professions.
What expenses are associated with hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the average individual, but it’s significant to understand them so you can make the best decision for your health and well-being.
Costs in the workplace
People who do not address their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less annually than those who have normal hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this might be clarified as follows. Studies suggest that having hearing loss raises your chances of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding directives
- Getting involved in disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Calling out of work regularly
- Social isolation (cost varies, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be enormous
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Adhere to all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, such as wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Several of these suggestions follow OSHA regulations that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may result in hearing loss. Substitute aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when communicating with management.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Adhere to suggested 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 higher equals immediate damage.
- Undergo a hearing test every year to track changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, consider pursuing a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing impairment often face challenges with family and friends. According to a study, individuals with hearing loss tend to have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A staggering number of people who have hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take actions to attend to their hearing problems. Also, 20% of individuals with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.
The strain in their personal relationships can also affect their work efficiency. Those with untreated hearing loss face double the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family.
Health-related costs
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, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing loss
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace conversations. Here are some recommendations:
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 considerable financial repercussions, making it crucial to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The stakes are too high to postpone action.