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It is 250 years since the rubber tree was discovered in South America but it is only in more recent times that the fluid it produces has been recognised as having the potential to lead to a latex injury claim by someone who is hypersensitive to the substance, usually as a result of over-exposure to it at work.
Latex is produced by many plants as a means of defence against creatures which wish to eat it and comprises a complex emulsion of proteins, alkaloids, starches, sugars, oils, tannins, resins, and gums that coagulates when out in the air, after the plant is cut. The main source of commercial rubber latex is the para rubber tree hevea brasiliensis which is grown in large quantities in south east Asia.
About half of the world's rubber production is used to make vehicle tyres with the remaining latex going into a wide variety of other products ranging from mats and car door cushions to hoses, gloves and toy balloons. Glue manufacturers also use considerable amounts.
Scientists do not yet know how or why some people develop sensitivity to latex. Some people have an allergy to the chemicals which are used in making the finished rubber and this can become a more-widespread reaction to a range of processed objects in everyday use.
Whatever the reason, the immune system of a victim over-reacts to latex because of a perception of harm and produces antibodies to attack it. This can lead to eczema or other skin conditions such as dermatitis and, more seriously, asthma and the possibility of severe anaphylactic shock as a result of an allergic reaction.
These dangers to health are becoming better recognised by both employers and employees and alternative products to those containing latex are available for many situations. Unfortunately, sufferers from latex allergy often do not realise they are affected by the problem until symptoms develop which can be months or years after first being exposed to the substance.
Apart from industrial workers, many of those who are affected by latex allergy are hospital workers, nurses, laboratory staff and cleaners. To protect their hands from germs and poisonous substances, gloves are an essential item and, prior to the introduction of synthetic rubber, there was no alternative to latex-based products.
Employers are obliged to look after their employees' health and welfare and, if someone has developed a medical condition as a result of their job, it may well be that a compensation claim for this workplace injury is appropriate.
Experienced solicitors for your latex injury claim
If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of latex exposure through employment, YouClaim can help with making a no win no fee personal injury claim against those responsible for the condition.
Whether the latex injury has developed into a severe life-threatening condition or a milder but still distressing skin condition, our experienced no win no fee lawyers have the knowledge to help you make a successful claim for damages.
But, win or lose, you claim will not cost a single penny at any time and we guarantee you will keep 100% of any compensation awareded.
Wherever you are in the UK, one of our panel of legal experts will be available with sympathetic advice and representation. You have the added peace of mind from knowing that they are all supervised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
To take the first step in starting a latex injury claim, why not call YouClaim's freephone number 0800 10 757 95for advice from the personal and work injury specialists.
