Risk assessment and safe working procedures

Managers Will:

Include in their risk assessments consideration of the most appropriate glove choice for the specific task/procedure to be undertaken.  The following factors should be considered when undertaking a risk assessment of individual procedures:

• the nature of the task
• the risk of contamination
• barrier efficacy of gloves
• sterile or non-sterile gloves required
• patient/user sensitisation.

In addition the following general principles should be adopted:-

• Limit exposure by, for example, having a policy of not wearing gloves when there is no risk of infection, such as when making beds.
• Ensure that staff follow good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after removing gloves.
• Ensure that barrier creams are not used in conjunction with latex gloves as they may increase the penetration of the allergens.
• Provide regular reminders to staff about the risks posed by latex and encourage staff to report any skin problems or other symptoms of latex allergy to you as soon as they arise.
• Refer staff with non-intact skin on hands and forearms due to dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis etc. or latex allergy symptoms to Occupational Health via the relevant HR Manager.
• Consider latex allergy during the assessment of clients.

The Occupational Health Provider has been supplied with a current list of jobs which may involve the wearing of latex gloves. Managers should notify them of any job changes or new jobs which may also involve latex exposure so that this can be taken into account during pre employment health screening.

Employees Should:

As any glove cannot guarantee complete safety, the following precautions should be taken:

• Minimise the wearing of latex gloves as far as possible, taking into consideration your activities.
• Cover unhealed cuts and abrasions etc. with waterproof plasters before putting on your gloves.
• Change your gloves if there is evidence of perforation or other damage.
• Wash your hands after removing gloves.
• Report any skin problems however minor e.g. non-intact skin on hands and forearms due to dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis etc. to your manager.
• Report any latex allergy symptoms to your line manager immediately. You may be referred to the Council’s Occupational Health provider. Typical symptoms  include:
• skin rash
• hives
• itching
• nasal, eye or sinus problems

Remember, helping with early symptoms may prevent more serious effects.