May dependents of a latex allergic worker be awarded workers’ compensation benefits?
• A: Yes. In most jurisdictions, if a latex sensitive worker dies as a result of a compensable latex reaction, his or her dependents would be entitled to benefits. Benefit periods and amounts vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. • Q: Can a homebound latex sensitive individual be entitled to a computer? • A: A Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court has ordered that a personal computer must be furnished to a homebound former health care worker suffering from latex sensitivity. This ruling is consistent with a national trend by the courts recognizing the catastrophic impact of latex allergy. The injured worker was so sensitized to latex that she couldn’t even leave her home to attend computer training. She was unable to handle ordinary textbooks and physical training aids because of her sensitivity to the ink and binding materials. The court reasoned that the allergic reaction potentially triggered by further exposure could be so severe as to be life threatening. • Q: Can a skilled healt
