Allergies to latex rubber have been identified as a serious concern for workers who become sensitized to latex gloves and other natural rubber products. Although the symptoms vary from case to case, the most common reaction to latex products is the development of dry, itchy, and irritated areas on the skin, usually the hands.

Other reactions may include rashes and skin blisters which can spread away from the area of skin touched by the latex.

More severe reactions may involve respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throat, and asthma.

Rarely, shock may occur. However a life threatening reaction is seldom the first sign of latex allergy.

Latex is a tacky, milky sap that is produced by some types of shrubs, plants and trees including the commercial rubber tree (Havea Braziliensis). The latex sap is made up of tiny droplets that contain water and hydrocarbon polymer and have a coating comprised of proteins. The sap is used to make latex rubber, also known as natural rubber.

Various chemicals must be added to latex to give the natural rubber product the desired strength, stretch and durability properties. Starch may be used to keep rubber products from sticking to each other. It also makes it easier to put on latex gloves.

Several researches have identified a protein substance in natural latex as a major source of the allergy. However, chemicals such as zinc diethyldithiocarbamate (which is added to the latex) and starch powder (found in new gloves) have also caused allergic reactions in sensitive people. Actually, it is the protein in the glove material that has been absorbed by the cornstarch that causes the allergic reaction. Powder-free gloves cause fewer allergic problems.

Latex allergy can be prevented by protecting workers from latex exposure. Employers should:

• provide workers with non-latex gloves
• ensure that workers use good housekeeping practices to remove latex-containing dust from the workplace
• provide workers with education programs about latex allergy

"Hypoallergenic" gloves are usually made from latex so latex-sensitive workers should check to see if they are made from latex or some other material.

Persons allergic to latex rubber products should consult an allergist to find out if they are actually allergic to latex (natural) rubber or to chemicals that are in synthetic rubbers. They should also advise their physicians and dentists so that they can decide if alternate products should be used in any treatment that normally requires the use of rubber products.