At times, the repercussions of a choice are readily obvious. Operating a vehicle with a flat tire can cause irregular tire degradation and potentially expensive repairs, such as wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Failing to provide a regular oil change schedule can result in expensive engine damage.

However, other costs are more nuanced, with their ramifications not always readily obvious.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, might not have instant complications, but your health will eventually diminish.

Work-related hearing loss falls into this last category.
The actual costs and relationships may be uncertain, usually becoming obvious only in hindsight. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the actual cost of experiencing hearing impairment in the workplace? Let’s dig into it.

Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?

According to studies, around 15.5% of individuals in the US have trouble hearing. In addition, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. A small but considerable four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so severe that it renders 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 dangerous noise levels each year.

An additional 10 million are subjected to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, 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 economic and personal ramifications of hearing loss may not be instantly apparent, but comprehending these consequences is crucial for making informed choices that prioritize your total health and quality of life.

Workplace costs

The Better Hearing Institute found that people with untreated hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less annually in comparison to people with normal hearing. The reason for this may be explained as follows. Studies suggest that having hearing loss increases your chances of:

• Injury which can lead to short-term disability
• Challenges with professional productivity
• Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
• Overreacting to a perceived slight or unspoken message can result in needless disputes
• Missing out on promotions/raises
• Missing work

But it doesn’t end there.

Everyday costs

Individuals experiencing untreated hearing loss are more likely to have troubles in their personal connections. According to a study, those with hearing loss often engage in more disagreements within their families, with 33% attributing most of their conflicts to their hearing loss.

A surprising one in sixteen people with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Additionally, 20% of people with hearing loss confess to regularly deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.

This interpersonal stress often extends to their professional performance. Those with neglected hearing loss face double the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. This isolation leaves them without a crucial support system when dealing with illness, mental health issues, injuries, or declining health.

Health-related costs

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

• Extended loneliness can have a varying but substantial impact on accelerating the deterioration of one’s overall health.
• Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
• Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
• Greater likelihood of unexpected falls results in a significant financial burden
• Increased work accident risk (varies)
• Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)

It is important to focus on your hearing now.

Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing impairment

With the escalating worldwide occurrence of hearing loss, it is essential to initiate open and productive discussions in the workplace. Here are some suggestions:

• Follow the safety rules established by your employer, which might include using earplugs, masks, or other protective devices while working. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA regulations that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
• Start 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 superiors.
• Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s 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 happen. If you notice your hearing waning, you should think about finding a job where you are less at risk.

Consider seeking expert help from an audiologist to assess your workplace and explore potential options to enhance your hearing on the job. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have significant financial consequences, making it crucial to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The stakes are too high to delay action.