Latex in the Workplace

There appears to be an alarming rise in associated sensitivity and the number of allergic reactions to latex gloves, etc. Workers exposed to latex gloves and other products containing natural rubber latex may develop allergic reactions such as skin rashes; hives, nasal, eye, or sinus symptoms; and (rarely) shock. Students in health related majors, cosmetology, child development, or culinary arts are at risk for developing latex allergy if they use latex gloves frequently. Recommendations for preventing latex allergy in the work place are available in the NIOSH ALERT Bulletin “Preventing Allergic Reactions to Natural Rubber Latex in the Workplace” which may be found in the above mentioned departments.