Take steps to avoid ladder injuries, borough businesses urged

Don't let a dodgy ladder be your downfall - that's the message to local businesses from the Royal Borough as it joins a national safety initiative which aims to reduce death and injury from ladder accidents.

As part of the innovative Ladder Exchange scheme environmental health officers will be routinely inspecting businesses across the borough from September until November actively seeking out "dodgy" ladders and giving information and guidance on the suitability of ladders and other equipment.

They will also be offering businesses the opportunity to exchange broken or damaged ladders for a discount on new ones at a variety of stores supported by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which is running the exchange scheme.

Falls from height continue to be the main cause of injury and fatality at work - there have been 77 major ladder injuries to workers in Berkshire in the last five years and one fatality.

Safety advice from the HSE advises against using ladders if:
• they are bent, split or damaged - the ladder could collapse
• the feet are missing, worn or damaged - the ladder could slip
• the rungs are bent, missing or loose - the ladder could become unstable
• the locking bars are bent or the fixings are worn or damaged - the ladder could collapse.

Cllr Phill Bicknell, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Environmental Protection, said: "This is an absolutely brilliant scheme which focuses on the importance of using safe equipment in the workplace at all times as well as giving businesses the chance to exchange their broken or damaged old ladders for a new one at a discounted price.

"It is vital - as well as a legal requirement - that businesses provide their workers with equipment that is safe, in good working order and right for the job. And much of the advice given by the HSE is just as relevant for people using ladders for home maintenance to make sure they are not using a faulty ladder which could cause serious injuries.

"I would urge businesses to take full advantage of this super scheme and get their ladders checked out if they are at all concerned."

Discounts of up to 50% will be offered to businesses exchanging their faulty ladders for new ones. For individual participating retail partner details or for further advice on using ladders safely go to the HSE's website at www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm

The Ladder Exchange scheme runs from September 1 until 30 November 2011.

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