Possible Solutions

In order to make an impact in reducing latex allergy exposures in the workplace, more than just hazard recognition needs to occur. After performing an exposure assessment, preventative measures for worker safety should be implemented. The following documents provide safety and health information regarding latex allergy prevention.

• Home Healthcare Workers: How to Prevent Latex Allergies. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 2012-119, (February 2012).
• Latex Allergy, A Prevention Guide. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 98-113, (1998). Provides a guide to latex allergy prevention, set in a question and answer format.
• Preventing Allergic Reactions to Natural Rubber Latex in the Workplace. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-135, (June 1997). A Spanish version is also available. Contains recommendations for employers and employees to help minimize latex allergy reactions and exposures, including a worker warning sheet for latex allergy that can be copied and posted.
• 21 CFR 801.437 - User labeling for devices that contain natural rubber. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Regulation, (Revised April 1, 2012). States actual wording required by the FDA for the labeling of medical devices that contain natural rubber latex. Also, states that labeling of natural rubber latex devices may no longer use the term "hypoallergenic." These requirements apply to all devices composed of or containing, or having packaging or components composed of or containing, natural rubber that contacts humans.