At times, the consequences of a decision are immediately obvious. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can result in uneven tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can lead to costly engine damage.

Yet, some costs are subtler, with relationships not immediately apparent.
However, this lack of visibility doesn’t void their presence. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, may not have immediate consequences, but your health will eventually diminish.

A great illustration of this is job-related hearing loss.
Real expenses and ramifications may not be immediately evident, frequently arising only after the fact. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the actual price of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s have a closer look.

Is hearing loss in the workplace very prevalent?

Studies suggest that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). A small but considerable four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so intense that it leaves them unable to hear.

Government agencies approximate 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 subjected to harmful noise levels every year.

An additional 10 million individuals are at risk of being subjected to hazardous substances in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing impairment. Certain substances like cleaning products, metals with high density, and a poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide are among the materials listed. For people in specific occupations, exposure to such substances is simply a routine aspect of their daily tasks.

What costs are connected with hearing loss?

The costs of hearing loss are unclear for the ordinary person, but it’s significant to comprehend them so you can make the best choice for your health and well-being.

Costs in the workplace

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

• Harm that may result in a temporary incapacity
• Struggles in job effectiveness
• Trouble hearing/understanding instructions
• Getting into disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
• Missing out on promotions/raises
• Missing work

But it doesn’t stop there.

Everyday costs

Individuals experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal connections. According to a study, individuals with hearing loss tend to engage in more arguments within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their disputes to their hearing loss.

A staggering number of individuals with hearing loss – approximately one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their marriage unless they take steps to address their hearing issues. Also, 20% of people with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the severity of their condition.

This interpersonal strain frequently expands to their professional effectiveness. People who do not address their hearing loss are two times as likely to experience social withdrawal from their loved ones.

Health-related costs

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

• Social solitude (cost varies, but it can substantially increase general health decline rate)
• Mental Health Issues ($200-$500/month + lost workdays)
• Dementia: The financial hardship can be staggering
• Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a substantial financial burden
• Increased work accident risk (varies)
• Higher probability of costly hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)

It is important to pay attention to your hearing now.

Minimizing the chances of experiencing hearing loss

With the increasing worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is important to start open and productive discussions in the workplace. Here are some suggestions:

• Follow all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices on the job. Many of these guidelines are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
• Start open and courteous discussions with your colleagues about work conditions that might result in hearing problems. Replace aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
• Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, assessing the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s safe to do so. Adhere 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 instant damage.
• Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that may happen. If you observe a decline in your hearing, think about finding a safer work environment.

Consider getting expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial consequences, making it essential to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The dangers are too great to postpone taking 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.