Sometimes, the outcomes of a decision are plainly visible. Operating a vehicle with a deflated tire can result in uneven tire wear and potentially costly repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to expensive engine damage.

Still, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately evident.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t void their presence. For example, neglecting to eat vegetables may not result in instant consequences, but inevitably your health will suffer.

A perfect illustration of this is job-related hearing loss.
Actual costs and ramifications might not be immediately apparent, frequently emerging only after the fact. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the real cost of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.

How common is hearing loss in the workplace?

According to studies, around 15.5% of people in the US have trouble hearing. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but considerable four percent of people experience tinnitus so intense that it leaves them unable to hear.

Government agencies estimate that 24% of this is because of exposure on the job. Although governments have implemented steps to reduce occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to harmful noise levels annually.

An additional 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. Some substances like cleaning solutions, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For individuals in specific professions, exposure to these substances is just a routine aspect of their daily tasks.

What expenses are associated with hearing loss?

The economic and personal ramifications of hearing loss might not be immediately obvious, but grasping these consequences is essential for making educated choices that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.

Workplace costs

People who do not deal with their hearing loss are reported to earn about $12,000 less annually than people with normal hearing, according to research conducted by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be linked to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:

• Injury which can lead to temporary disability
• Struggles in job effectiveness
• Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
• Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can cause needless disputes
• Missing out on promotions/raises
• Missing work

However, that’s not the end of the story.

Everyday costs

People dealing with neglected hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal connections. According to a study, individuals with hearing loss tend to have more arguments within their families, with 33% associating most of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.

An alarming one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their spouse has issued a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing loss admit to frequently misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.

This interpersonal strain often extends to their professional effectiveness. Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are twice as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones. Their lack of relationships results in the absence of crucial help and comfort when dealing with illness, mental health issues, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.

Health-related costs

Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in people with untreated hearing loss, including:

• Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial effect on accelerating the deterioration of one’s overall health.
• Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + missed workdays)
• Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
• Fall risk increase ($15,000+)
• Increased work accident risk (varies)
• Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)

It’s time to get serious about your hearing.

Reducing your risk of 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:

• Follow the safety regulations set by your employer, which might include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other safety equipment while at work. Numerous of these suggestions follow OSHA guidelines that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
• Initiate open and respectful discussions 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 managers.
• Utilize a sound meter 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 every year to keep track of changes over time. If you notice your hearing waning, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.

Take practical actions by consulting with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for improving your hearing at work. Waiting for 7-10 years without seeking help can result in significant expenses, and comprehending the real implications of procrastination is crucial. The stakes are too high to delay action.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.