Since latex is used widely, exposure may occur in a number of settings. The highest exposure occurs when thin latex gloves or catheters come into direct contact with the mucosa e.g. during surgical operations, barium enemas, vaginal examinations and manual removal of faeces. Latex containing products include condoms, baby nipples, buretrols, catheters, chewing gum, dental cofferdams, face masks, golf grips, headsets, bathing caps, milking machines, pacifiers, rubber bands, syringes, injection vials, teething rings and tennis grips. Although all of these products may contain latex, the ability to release free latex proteins is variable. If the product is processed extensively, washed extensively and hardened, free latex proteins are reduced.
Gloves are notoriously variable in the amount of free latex.
Powdered gloves typically release latex into the air and when these particles become airborne in air conditioning systems they sensitise health care workers. Health care workers may sensitise themselves after removing gloves and touching their mouths or eyes with unwashed hands. The manufacturing process for good latex gloves should include an extensive washing process to remove soluble latex proteins. Many manufacturers skip or shorten the washing process to improve productivity and are marketing more dangerous and highly sensitising latex gloves at a cheaper price. In general, non-powdered gloves are safer.