Introduction
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a general duty upon employers to keep employees and others (including patients) healthy and safe at work.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 asks employers to undertake an assessment of any substances used at work that are hazardous to health. Natural rubber latex is hazardous to health.
Latex is a commonly used material in a variety of products and equipment used in hospitals and at home. Latex has many benefits as it offers a high degree of sensitivity, strength and dexterity which is needed in healthcare. It also provides an effective barrier against infection. However, to protect patients and staff who are sensitised to latex, latex products will only be used within the Trust where a suitable alternative is not available.
As natural rubber latex is a potential asthmagen, health surveillance of staff who come into contact with latex is required. The extent and detail of the health surveillance should be related to the degree of risk identified during the COSHH Risk Assessment and determined in consultation with an occupational health professional.
Policy Details
| Download: | PDF version |
| Compiled by: | Non Clinical Risk Manager |
| Ratified by: | Health and Safety Committee |
| Date Ratified: | October 2020 |
| Date Issued: | October 2020 |
| Review Date: | June 2023 |
| Target Audience: | All staff |
| Contact name: | Amanda Walker Consultant Nurse, Infection Prevention and Control Nadine Williams, Occupational Health Manager |
See also:
- Health and Safety Policy
- Management and Use of Medical Devices Policy
- COSHH Policy
- Personal Protective Equipment Policy
- Policy for the Reporting and Management of Incidents
- Risk Assessment Policy
- Glove Policy
- Hand Hygiene Policy for Healthcare Workers
