Sometimes, the repercussions of a decision are immediately apparent. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Neglecting regular oil changes can lead to engine failure.
However, other expenses are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily apparent.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to consume vegetables, for instance, might not have instant complications, but your health will eventually decline.
A great illustration of this is job-related hearing loss.
Actual expenses and implications may not be immediately apparent, often emerging only after the fact. Nonetheless, they certainly exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s dive into it.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to studies, about 15.5% of individuals in the US have trouble hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it leaves them unable to hear.
Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. In spite of efforts by the government to control health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can worsen hearing loss. 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 connected with hearing impairment?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss might not be instantly obvious, but comprehending these consequences is crucial for making informed decisions that prioritize your total health and quality of life.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute found that people with neglected hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less annually compared to those who have healthy hearing. The reason for this may be clarified as follows. Studies show that having hearing impairment raises your risk of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Problems in work performance
- Difficulty hearing/understanding directives
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think somebody said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social seclusion (cost varies, but it can considerably increase general health decline rate)
- Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial burden can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial burden
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow the safety regulations established by your employer, which may include using earplugs, masks, or other safety devices while at work. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards designed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful conversations with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may result in hearing loss. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your supervisors.
- To assess the noise levels in your surroundings, consider utilizing a sound meter application on your mobile device, taking care to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Adhere to recommended 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.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that may happen. 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 expenses
People with hearing loss often experience difficulties with family and friends. According to a study, those who have hearing loss often have more arguments within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their disputes to their hearing loss.
A surprising one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce warning unless they get help. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing impairment admit to frequently misleading their loved ones concerning how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently extends to their professional performance. Those with neglected hearing loss face double the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. This solitude leaves them without a vital support system when dealing with illness, depression, injuries, or diminishing health.
Health-related costs
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss extends beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing related health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get proactive about your hearing.
Reducing your risk of hearing loss
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to climb, it becomes essential to participate in meaningful workplace dialogues. Check out these suggestions:
Take proactive actions by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Waiting for 7-10 years without getting help can result in considerable expenses, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to postpone action.