THE LADDER ASSOCIATION has launched this year’s Ladder Exchange, which will run from 1 September to 31 December. Established by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in 2007 – and now run and managed by the industry trade body – the campaign has already resulted in thousands of ’dodgy’ ladders being taken out of service.

The Ladder Exchange allows users to exchange old and/or defective ladders for safe new ones – at a discount – at any of the scheme’s participating partners located throughout the UK.

It also champions safe ladder use and the need to inspect and maintain ladders at regular intervals in accordance with the regulations.

Comments Ladder Association chairman, Martin Brooke: “Over two million people work on ladders daily in the UK and we want all those workers to work safely. If you take a chance with a faulty ladder you are risking an accident and potentially your life”.

“We are delighted to champion the Ladder Exchange because it’s an initiative, alongside formal training, that can really make a difference and help keep people safe.”

If you need to work at height you need to:

• Know when it’s right to use a ladder:
• Decide how to select the right sort of ladder for the job in hand;
• Understand how to use it and use it safely;
• Know how to maintain and look after it.

This year’s campaign will again feature ‘Idiots on Ladders’ – the Association’s hugely popular competition that invites the public to submit pictures of reckless, and, in many cases, downright dangerous ladder use.

Says Martin Brooke: “Each year the competition only serves to reinforce the need for proper ladder training. Users must equip themselves with the knowledge, skills and confidence necessary to use ladders safely and productively. Training is vital.”

For full details on the Ladder Exchange, please visit the dedicated section on the Ladder Association website.