New latex allergy guidance online

News | HSP
23.05.2008

National Health Service Plus has published new "evidence-based" guidance on managing latex allergy in the workplace.

The new guidance says the use of powder-free, low-protein latex gloves as an alternative to powdered latex gloves significantly reduces the incidence of latex allergy and latex-induced asthma, so "powdered latex gloves should therefore not be used in the workplace".

Employees with latex allergy, latex sensitivity or latex-induced asthma should use non-latex gloves.

The guidance advises that "all but the most severe cases of latex allergy and latex-induced asthma can be managed without the need for redeployment, ill-health retirement or termination of employment."

NHS Plus is a network of NHS occupational health departments across England, offering advice and support to business and the public sector, with a particular focus on SMEs.

The new guidance on latex allergy can be accessed here.