At times, the consequences of a choice are readily obvious. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Ignoring routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always immediately obvious.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t negate their presence. For example, neglecting to eat vegetables might not result in immediate repercussions, but inevitably your health will suffer.
Work-related hearing loss falls into this latter category.
The actual costs and connections might be uncertain, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they undeniably exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dig into it.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some degree 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 approximate that 24% of this is due to exposure on the job. Although governments have implemented steps to minimize occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million workers are still subjected to hazardous noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can exacerbate 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 professions.
What costs are associated with hearing loss?
The economic and personal implications of hearing loss might not be instantly apparent, but grasping these consequences is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
The Better Hearing Institute found that people with neglected hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less every year compared to those who have normal hearing. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting involved in disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial effect 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)
- Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Higher probability of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Comply with the safety rules set by your employer, which may include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other safety devices while working. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Begin open and polite dialogues with your co-workers about work conditions that might result in hearing issues. Replace aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when communicating with management.
- Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your environment 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 annually to keep track of changes over time. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Everyday costs
Individuals dealing with neglected hearing loss are more likely to have difficulties in their personal connections. Research shows 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 individuals with hearing loss reports that their spouse has issued a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Additionally, 20% of individuals dealing with hearing loss confess to frequently deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
The strain in their personal relationships can also affect their work productivity. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social seperation from their loved ones.
Costs related to medical problems
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in individuals with untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to pay attention to your hearing now.
Reducing the chances of experiencing hearing loss
With the increasing worldwide occurrence of hearing loss, it is important to start open and productive conversations in the workplace. Here are some recommendations:
Take proactive steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for improving your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial consequences, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.
