What causes the allergy
Natural rubber latex contains proteins that can cause sensitisation and immediate allergic reactions. It occurs in gloves and various healthcare or workplace products. It should not be confused with every material marketed using the word latex: origin and composition matter. Assessment needs to identify where natural rubber is present and how it could come into contact with a person.
Not every glove reaction is the same
Irritation caused by moisture, washing or prolonged glove wear differs from allergy to latex proteins. Delayed allergy to manufacturing additives is another possibility. These problems require different investigations. Changing glove colour or brand does not guarantee removal of the responsible ingredient, and clinical findings should be considered alongside the actual materials used for the task.
Exposure extends beyond the hands
Contact may involve skin or mucous membranes. With powdered gloves, latex proteins can become airborne and affect people nearby, even if they are not wearing the gloves. Review relevant elastic bands, devices and other articles as well. The inventory should identify real products rather than assume that all rubber items have identical composition or pose the same exposure.
Choosing suitable alternatives
Prioritise latex-free alternatives that maintain the protection needed for the task. Selection should consider chemical, biological and mechanical hazards alongside fit and dexterity. Where latex is used, low-protein, powder-free products reduce exposure but are not thereby suitable for an allergic person. The word hypoallergenic also does not guarantee that a product contains no natural rubber latex proteins.
Symptoms and clinical assessment
Hives and nasal, eye or breathing symptoms following contact warrant assessment. Severe reactions can occur, so breathing difficulty or significant systemic symptoms require urgent response. A glove should not be tried directly on the skin to confirm a suspicion. The clinical team determines appropriate investigations and individual measures; improvised workplace exposure tests are not an acceptable substitute.
Maintaining control over time
Glove selection and purchasing should preserve the agreed alternatives and prevent inadvertent substitutions. Inform relevant people of necessary precautions without sharing confidential clinical details. Review shared products and supplier changes as well, including substitute items introduced temporarily when the usual stock is unavailable. Follow-up checks that relevant exposure is controlled and that the alternative does not create other hazards or introduce a different ingredient that causes problems.
