What is a reasonable accommodation for an employee with a latex allergy?

What is a reasonable accommodation for an employee with a latex allergy?

• A. Provide latex-free gloves
• B. Allow latex exposure
• C. Reassign the employee to a non-related job
• D. Remove gloves entirely

Answer: (A)

Providing latex-free gloves is a practical way to accommodate a latex allergy because it lets the employee continue performing essential tasks safely without exposure. Non-latex options such as nitrile or vinyl gloves are widely available, meet safety needs, and typically involve little or no undue burden for the employer. This approach preserves job duties while protecting health. Allowing latex exposure would worsen the allergy and is not a reasonable accommodation. Reassigning to a non-related job is something considered only if the employee cannot perform essential duties even with accommodations or if a suitable vacant position exists. Removing gloves entirely would compromise safety and fail to address the allergy.

Providing latex-free gloves is a practical way to accommodate a latex allergy because it lets the employee continue performing essential tasks safely without exposure. Non-latex options such as nitrile or vinyl gloves are widely available, meet safety needs, and typically involve little or no undue burden for the employer. This approach preserves job duties while protecting health.

Allowing latex exposure would worsen the allergy and is not a reasonable accommodation. Reassigning to a non-related job is something considered only if the employee cannot perform essential duties even with accommodations or if a suitable vacant position exists. Removing gloves entirely would compromise safety and fail to address the allergy.