Latex (Protection Against – Adverse Reaction To)

The proteins in natural rubber latex (referred to as latex in this policy) can cause hypersensitivity in some individuals leading to extreme reactions of the immune system from subsequent exposure. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002(1) require the elimination of exposures to hazardous substances where it is reasonably practicable, and the adequate control of exposures where elimination is not reasonably practicable.

While latex remains in many products, it will continue to pose a risk to the safety of staff and patients. The NHS Lothian Policy for Protection Against Adverse Reactions to Latex 2009 provides a general protective strategy to manage this risk. The NHS Lothian Glove Selection Policy 2007(2) provides the basis for minimising contact  with latex through the use of gloves, which are the greatest potential exposure to latex among staff and patients.

Note that the Glove Selection Policy is not expected to lead to the elimination of latex in sterile surgeons’ gloves in the near future. The application of NHS Lothian Policy for Protection Against Adverse Reactions to Latex is particularly important where latex gloves remain in use.

Aims

• To eliminate exposures to latex where it is reasonably practicable, placing the highest priority on the circumstances and the forms of latex which may create the most risk of exposure to latex proteins.
• To ensure that patients with a hypersensitivity to latex are identified and that the treatment and care of such patients reduces the risks of adverse reactions to an acceptably low level, when it cannot be eliminated completely.
• To comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002(1).