Dr. Stephanie Mah

Stephanie Mah, MD, WCB of BC

"Some studies have tested health care workers and found up to 17 percent of them had a positive test reaction to latex proteins," said Dr. Stephanie Mah, an occupational doctor in the WCB's Prevention Division."This number rose to 36 percent in those who also had a history of allergies."

Health problems that do occur are grouped into two types of reactions -- irritant or allergic reactions.

An irritant skin reaction, or rash, is the most common health problem associated with natural rubber latex or synthetic rubber products.When wearing rubber gloves, a rash may be caused by soaps or other materials left on the skin when the gloves are on, dampness from sweating in gloves, or powders inside some gloves that may absorb skin oils and cause irritation.
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"We want to prevent workers from developing these problems," said Mah."Using a natural rubber latex product isn't always necessary, and an important part of prevention is to recognize those situations.Whenever possible, eliminating the use of these products may help reduce the risk of developing the latex protein allergy.When it does occur, it is important to recognize and properly deal with it as soon as possible."

Information in Dealing with Latex Allergies at Work guide applies to a wide range of jobs with exposure to latex products.Copies of the guide are available through the WCB Films and Posters Section at 604 276-3068 or toll free in B.C. at 1 800 661-2112, local 3068.

by Dr. Stephanie Mah, WCB