Ladder to success?

Missing rungs and bent sides – these are just a small selection of the ‘dodgy’ ladders that have been surrendered so far under this year’s ‘ladder exchange’.

The exchange, led by the Health and Safety Executive, closes its doors on 31 December, so time is running out for businesses to trade in their old, damaged or broken ladders for some new ones

Run in conjunction with retailers, manufacturers and trade associations, the scheme offers businesses the chance to get their ladders checked and, where necessary, exchange them for new ones at a heavily discounted price.

In 2008/09 a total of 35 workers died and more than 4,500 employees suffered major injury as a result of a fall from height in the workplace. Many of these incidents could be avoided by using the right equipment and taking simple precautions.

HSE is working in partnership with industry to ensure that anyone involved in working at height uses the right equipment for the job and uses it safely.

Peter Brown, HSE said:”We’ve had more than 900 ladders exchanged so far and we’re keen for more businesses to make the most of the offer before the end of the month. If you take a chance with ‘dodgy’ ladders you are risking your life.

“Every month more than 100 people fall off a ladder at work and suffer serious injuries. So many of these accidents are avoidable and having safe equipment makes a huge difference.”

The exchange discount can be up to 50% off and ladders can be exchanged at any of the partner retail outlets.

http://www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm