At times, the consequences of a decision are readily apparent. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, results in tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Neglecting regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately apparent.
But simply because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to eat vegetables, for example, might not have immediate consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A perfect illustration of this is occupational hearing loss.
The genuine costs and relationships might be uncertain, often becoming apparent only in hindsight. Nevertheless, they certainly exist. What is the true cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s delve into it.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies suggest that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. In addition, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so severe that they can’t hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government departments. In spite of efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are subjected to harmful noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. These include some cleaning solutions, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some line of work.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the average person, but it’s important to understand them so you can make the best decision 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 individuals with healthy hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be attributed to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Injury which can lead to temporary disability
- Struggles in job performance
- Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
- 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
- Prolonged loneliness can have a varying but substantial effect on speeding up the deterioration of one’s general health.
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + missed workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- increasing likelihood of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Comply with the safety rules set by your employer, which may include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other protective equipment while at work. Numerous of these recommendations follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Initiate open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that might result in hearing loss. Substitute aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when interacting with management.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider using 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 keep an eye on any changes that may occur. If you notice your hearing getting worse, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
But it doesn’t end there.
Costs in your day-to-day life
Individuals experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience troubles in their personal connections. According to a study, people with hearing loss often engage in more arguments within their families, with 33% attributing the majority of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.
A shocking number of people with hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – claim that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take actions to address their hearing issues. Also, 20% of people dealing with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
The strain 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 relationships leads to the absence of essential help and comfort when facing illness, mental health problems, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs associated with medical issues
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in individuals with untreated hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes critical to participate in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these recommendations:
Take proactive actions by consulting with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have significant financial consequences, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.