Ladder exchange can save lives

Herefordshire Council is taking part in a national campaign aimed at preventing dodgy ladders from shattering lives - a Ladder Exchange.

Falls from height continue to be the main causes of death in the workplace and one of the main causes of serious injury. Around a third of these injuries are the result of a fall from a ladder. During 2006/07, seven workers died and more than 1,000 were injured as a result of a fall from a ladder.

Two firms in Hereford - HSS in Holmer Road and Speedy Hire in Holme Lacy Road - are taking part in the Ladder Exchange. Anyone who has a ladder which is bent, broken or battered can bring it along to one of the outlets and exchange for a new one with a discount of up to fifty per cent.

Councillor John Jarvis, Herefordshire Council's cabinet member for the environment and strategic housing, said: "The figures regarding injury and death show people really do need to ensure their ladders are fit for purpose.

"I would urge everyone to check any ladders they have and, if in doubt, contact the two stores for advice about whether they need replacing. Ladder Exchange runs from September 1 until the end of the month and offers a huge discount so don't miss out," he added.

During Ladder Exchange 2007, more than 4,000 ladders were evicted from workplaces but the scheme is not restricted to just businesses and is open to anyone who uses a ladder.
For further information on Ladder Exchange log onto the website http://www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm or contact the council's environmental health team (duty officer) on 01432 261667.