Sometimes, the outcomes of a choice are plainly visible. Driving with a flat tire, for instance, results in tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Ignoring regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not instantly apparent.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. For instance, failing to eat vegetables might not trigger immediate repercussions, but inevitably your health will suffer.
A great illustration of this is job-related hearing loss.
Actual expenses and ramifications may not be immediately evident, often arising only after the fact. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the actual price of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s delve into it.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to studies, around 15.5% of individuals in the US have difficulty hearing. In addition, another 8% of people experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sound in 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 implemented steps to minimize occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still subjected to harmful noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being exposed to harmful substances in the workplace that could increase their hearing impairment. These include certain 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 financial and personal ramifications of hearing loss might not be immediately apparent, but grasping these consequences is crucial for making informed decisions 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 yearly compared to people with healthy hearing. This could be linked to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
- Difficulties with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can cause needless disputes
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost varies, but it can substantially increase overall health decline rate)
- 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)
- Increased risk for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Adhere to all safety standards mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Numerous of these recommendations follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to protect your well-being.
- Initiate 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 interacting with management.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter app on your mobile device, making sure to perform the tests only when it is safe to do so. Stick 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 above equals immediate damage.
- Get a hearing test every year to keep track of changes over time. If you observe a decline in your hearing, think about pursuing a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Costs in your everyday life
People with hearing impairment often experience difficulties with family and friends. According to a study, people with hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating most of their disputes to their hearing loss.
An alarming one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce warning unless they seek assistance. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to regularly misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal strain frequently extends to their professional performance. People with untreated hearing loss face double the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. Their lack of relationships leads to the absence of crucial assistance and comfort when dealing with sickness, mental health issues, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs associated with medical issues
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in individuals with untreated hearing loss, including:
It is essential to pay attention to your hearing now.
Minimizing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment
As the global pervasiveness of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace conversations. Here are some recommendations:
Consider getting expert help from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without seeking help can result in considerable expenses, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The dangers are too great to postpone taking action.
