A Philadelphia jury recently found glove manufacturer Safeskin Corporation liable for producing and distributing defective latex gloves. The plaintiff was awarded $842,000 after she alleged that the latex gloves she wore as a dental hygienist caused asthma, rhinitis, hives, contact dermatitis, sore throats, headaches, respiratory problems, and other allergic reactions. Safeskin is considering an appeal.

The plaintiff, who had used the latex gloves since 1981, claimed that Safeskin knew the latex material could cause health problems, yet the company failed to warn consumers of the dangers associated with the product. Safeskin was also faulted for referring to the latex gloves as "hypoallergenic."

Latex has come under attack in recent years after many workers, particularly those in the healthcare industry, have complained of allergies caused by the material. Today, many healthcare facilities have switched from latex gloves to those made of safer materials such as Nitrile and vinyl.

While many manufacturers continue to produce latex gloves, most no longer powder the inside of the gloves. Traditionally, powdered gloves were easier to don than non-powdered versions. Latex allergy experts say that powder often bonds with latex and becomes airborne when the gloves are stretched. Inhaling latex particles can cause allergic reactions and other health problems.