UK 'ladder exchange' ends on 31 December

The UK Health & Safety Executive's (HSE) 'Ladder Exchange' programme, under which ladder owners can get their ladders checked and if necessary replaced at heavily discounted prices, comes to a close on 31 December.

The scheme is being run with the cooperation of trade associations, rental companies and ladder manufacturers, including A-Plant, Clow Group, HSS Hire, The Ladder Association, SGB, Speedy Hire, Youngman Group and Zarges.

The HSE said that ladders with missing rungs and bent sides are among those that have been surrendered during the programme. The exchange discount can be up to 50% off and ladders can be exchanged at any of the partner retail outlets.

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."

In 2008/09 a total of 35 workers died and over 4500 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 said that before using ladders always ask yourself three simple questions:

- Do you need a ladder or should you use something different?

- Is it the right ladder?

- Are you using the ladder safely?