£280,000 for Healthcare Worker with Latex Allergy

The case of a healthcare worker who had to abandon her career because of a potentially fatal allergy to latex has finally been settled.

Fiona Moore, 37, worked in the dermatology department at York Hospital. She developed an allergy to latex protein as a result of wearing powdered latex gloves in the course of her work. As the condition worsened, she was no longer able to wear the gloves and was later dismissed as the hospital management said she was unable to do her job properly.

Mrs Moore’s allergy has changed her life completely, leaving her anxious and frightened of going outside in case she comes into contact with latex and suffers an allergic reaction. She is now classed as disabled and is unable to find alternative employment. Office work is not possible because she is allergic to rubber bands.

Items that could trigger her allergy are as varied as bananas, hot water bottles, balloons, some fabrics and even carpet underlay.

After bringing a claim against her former employer, Mrs Moore has secured £280,000 in compensation.

Latex allergies have become increasingly common amongst people who have to wear gloves at work for hygiene reasons. The allergy is caused by the body becoming hypersensitive to latex and over-reacting to its presence.

If you develop an allergic condition from an irritant used in your workplace, make sure your employer is aware of the problem. If your employer fails to take appropriate action, you may be entitled to compensation.

Further information on latex allergies can be found on the Health and Safety Executive’s website.