What is Latex and where does it come from?
Latex is a natural product that comes from the milky liquid found in rubber trees (Hevea Brasiliensis). The liquid is extracted and then used in the manufacturing process of many products commonly used every day; gloves, tires, elastic on clothing, soles on shoes, rubber bands, etc.
As a renewable and biodegradable resource, natural latex is often a preferred choice for people when selecting gloves.
Latex Allergy Concerns
Concerns with latex allergies have mainly been recognized in the last 15 years; it is estimated that between 1 and 6 percent of the general population is allergic to latex.
As awareness for latex concerns become more commonplace, it is important to note that not all reactions are true allergies. Reactions or symptoms of sensitivities to latex as with any other allergies should be monitored by the individual experiencing them.
Individuals affected by latex sensitivities and/or allergies usually involve those who regularly come in contact with latex and sensitivity develops over time. Additionally, those with Spina Bifida, food allergies and health care workers are affected more than others.
Latex allergies are classified into three different types of reactions:
Irritant Contact Dermatitis - A condition where an individual will experience a skin reaction such as redness, itchiness, dryness, hives or general irritation. Irritant Dermatitis is a reaction mainly caused by factors like: Frequent hand washing, climatic changes, strong chemicals and the like.
Type IV Contact Dermatitis - A rash that is frequently a result of the chemicals that are added to the latex, it can spread to other parts of the body and may not be apparent until a day or so after exposure.
Type I Immediate Hypersensitivity - This is an immediate reaction and in most cases will appear in various forms; hives, itchiness, redness, difficulty breathing and can even cause respiratory problems. This type of reaction may be very severe. This reaction could be similar to that of an insect sting seen in individuals with allergies to stings.
Clean Ones puts in place key manufacturing practices as a first step in averting these problems:
Proper compounding of chemicals - Chemicals are analyzed before they are considered to be used in production; only chemicals that pass a rigorous inspection are utilized.
Manufacturing areas free of contaminants - Compounds that pass in-house inspection will be kept under quarantine until ready to use.
Pre and Post beading, multi-step protein leaching - During the drying process, latex proteins migrate to the surface, gloves are leached three more times to remove as much protein as possible.
On-line chlorination of powder free gloves - A chlorination process produces the powder free surface and aids in reducing latex proteins further since protein is destroyed by chlorine. Any excess chlorine is washed off and then the gloves are properly dried.
Tightly controlled powder application on powdered gloves - Quality assurance tests routinely carried out on gloves to ensure that protein levels are acceptable.
Post production washing, drying and tumbling - Gloves are washed and dried. A final vulcanization is achieved through the tumbling process and is necessary in achieving a strong glove. The gloves then undergo a final inspection before packing to ensure any non-compliant gloves are removed.
What should you do if you have or suspect a latex allergy?
Understanding signs of latex allergies is the first step in preventing issues. Skin sensitivities, itchiness, redness, or irritation to the nose and/or eyes are all signs. Seek out medical advice, alert others and switch to another type of glove suited for the purpose of your task such as latex free vinyl or latex free nitrile.
|
