A recent study documented the incidence of latex allergy caused by long-term use of latex gloves. Based on the results of incidence reported by Motorola's occupational health resources and the contamination control groups in each of three facilities, the study showed some surprising results.

In the study, approximately 2203 and 2100 workers in three Motorola facilities in Phoenix were investigated for any form of latex allergy. Out of this only 0.18% and 0.19%, respectively, had reported any case of latex allergy. It could not be confirmed whether it was solely the latex gloves that caused the allergic reactions. This study attempted to prove that a properly manufactured powder-free glove will not proliferate the incidence of latex allergy due to long-term use.

The medical community is abuzz with discussions about allergies caused by using natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves. It is reported that at least 15%¹ of health care workers are allergic and react to chemicals or to the proteins in latex gloves. The problem has become serious enough for OSHA¹ to consider recommending that employees not wear NRL gloves except for protection in situations where there is exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials.

This recommendation, if implemented, will also affect workers in microelectronics who use gloves in various environments, particularly cleanrooms. It will also necessitate a switch from NRL gloves to synthetic alternatives such as nitrile, polyurethane, neoprene, and PVC gloves.

In the electronics industry, powder-free NRL gloves are the type most widely used. The gloves are powder-free to control contamination of products, and because NRL gloves offer unparalleled characteristics compared to synthetic gloves. These characteristics include:

* Low particulate levels. Motorola used both natural latex and synthetic gloves in its facilities, but found that in use, synthetic gloves shed more particles than do NRL gloves.

*Comfort. NRL gloves are soft and elastic, and therefore stretch to fit more comfortably.

* Tactility. Because NRL gloves are thin, they allow users better “feel” and tactility.

*“Green” product. NRL gloves are made from natural rubber, which degrades naturally into non-toxic waste.

*Cost. NRL gloves are reasonable in cost.

*Quality. NRL gloves have been proven to maintain barrier integrity more effectively than synthetic gloves.