Exposure to latex in schools

Latex allergy poses considerable life‐long risks to those affected. Latex allergy typically occurs in, but is not restricted to, those with frequent exposure to latex and with allergy cross‐reactive foods (bananas, chestnuts, kiwis and avocados).¹ Recurrent exposure is often occupational—seen in healthcare workers and rubber industry workers—and is also seen in certain patient groups such as patients with spina bifida and patients who have undergone multiple surgical procedures.² Atopic individuals exposed to latex are at an increased risk of developing latex allergy compared with the general population.² Exposure to powdered latex gloves seems to be a particularly important factor in sensitising susceptible individuals,³ and the powder in the gloves is detectable in the environment for several months after glove use ceases.

A 12‐year‐old atopic boy with a history of latex allergy developed more frequent reactions after beginning secondary school. This prompted us to survey all secondary schools in the Fingal area of North Dublin in relation to latex exposure, and in particular, glove use.

Of the 28 schools, 12 (43%) responded. Of these, 9 (75%) were using latex gloves, including 6 (50%) using powdered latex gloves. No other source of latex exposure was identified by the schools. None of the schools had undertaken a risk assessment in relation to glove usage. Reasons cited for the choice of gloves were: (1) they were the only gloves made available by the employer; (2) they were the only gloves available in the suppliers' catalogue; and (3) comfort. The activities requiring glove use were science (biology and chemistry, home‐economics, agricultural science, green school duties), waste recycling and first aid.

The main benefit of latex gloves over non‐latex alternatives is improved protection against blood‐borne infections.² Although this is clearly desirable to protect those undertaking first aid duties, it is not required for routine school practicals.

The unnecessary, routine use of latex gloves should be identified and discouraged through appropriate risk assessment.² Despite the relatively low response rate in our survey, even if all non‐responding schools were not using latex gloves, a minimum of 21% of schools are using powdered latex gloves. This means that substantial numbers of atopic children are unnecessarily being exposed to latex in its most allergenic form on a regular basis.

School boards of management are largely comprised of volunteers, and are over‐stretched by a large variety of demands. In the absence of occupational health support, few schools would have the expert knowledge to identify the risks associated with latex, particularly in the form of powdered gloves. Information regarding the risks of powdered gloves and details of suitable alternatives should be circulated to schools.