Martin Brooke, sales director at Nottingham-based Bratts Ladders, is the new chairman of the Ladder Association. He took over from Cameron Clow, managing director of access specialists the Clow Group, at the association’s Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) at the Moxhull Hall Hotel, Wishaw.

A surplus stock broker and sales agent before joining Bratts Ladders in 2003, Martin is a passionate and committed advocate of ladders as a safe, flexible and effective piece of workplace equipment.

He comments: “I plan to spend my time in office promoting the Ladder Association’s key message – that ladders are still the most practical and cost effective piece of kit in the toolbox.”

“In particular, I intend to highlight the benefits of Ladder Association training and the need for users to have the necessary skills and knowledge to use ladders and stepladders safely and effectively.”

“The number of people benefiting from ladder training in recent years has grown significantly in many sectors, including construction, facilities management and retailing. This in turn has made a significant contribution to competency and best practice.”

A member of the Ladder Association and a Council member since 2006, Martin is married with two children. A keen sports enthusiast, his interests include football and squash coaching.

One of his first roles as new chairman will be to launch the association’s Advocate Scheme which provides speakers for regional and national meetings and conferences of trade and professional bodies.

Says Martin: “It’s time to bang the drum for the humble ladder. After all, they have been used successfully for thousands of years. Ladders make sense, which is why there are over two million in daily use.”

“But remember, when using a ladder, pick the right ladder for the job and make sure you are trained to use it safely.”