Allergy to latex, a product of the rubber tree, is becoming more common. As a society, we are exposed to many products that contain latex including gloves, children’s toys, and medical appliances. Those who work in laboratory, health care, and food service settings add work exposure to the other everyday exposures. Studies have estimated that 8 to 17% of health care workers and 1 to 3% of the general population experience symptoms of latex allergy
Storing Flammable Liquids in Refrigerators and Freezers
Flammable material refrigerators and freezers are designed to prevent ignition of flammable vapors inside the storage compartment and should be purchased whenever a refrigerator is needed to store flammable liquid. A flammable liquid is defined by the fire code as having a flash point of less than 100 ˚F (38˚C).
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a potentially fatal viral infection carried principally by deer mice, but also found in other rodents. There have been over 322 known cases of HPS in the United States as of June 2002 with almost 40 percent resulting in death. However, the survival rate is greatly improved when proper diagnosis and medical support are rapidly obtained. The disease is relatively difficult to get and easy to avoid by taking the necessary precautions. In California, many hantavirus cases have occurred in the central Sierra Nevada.
Cal/OSHA inspectors can make unannounced visits to make sure that the Berkeley campus and associated fa- cilities are safe and healthy. Normally, they contact EH&S first by coming to the EH&S main office. If they show up at your workplace without an EH&S escort, call EH&S immediately at 642-3073. EH&S will help ensure the appropriate labor union(s) is/are involved and will provide additional support throughout the process.
