ladder exchange update

Following an increase in ladder-related accidents in the work place, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) introduced the ladder exchange programme. After a fantastic response from the industry, the scheme was extended to December 2007.

The programme was intended to provide employers with an opportunity to swap old ladders for discounted new ones in order to ensure they met the current health and safety requirements for ladder use. Not only did this mean that an incorrectly sized ladder for a job could be part-exchanged for the regulation size, but ladders showing wear and tear, damage and distortion could also be taken in for discounted replacement.

There were four retailers participating in the scheme:

• HSS Hire
• Ladderstore
• SGB
• Speedy Hire

Wickes were also helping deal with issues of ladder safety.

The HSE recently reported the results of the scheme; 4,194 ladders were taken out of circulation against a target of 4,000. The scheme was so successful that the HSE intends to run it again in the autumn of 2008.

You can find more information on correct ladder safety and the Work at Height Regulations by visiting the HSE's own page on Work at Height.

For more information, please contact John Mitchell, head of Blake Lapthorn solicitors' Health and Safety team on 023 8085 7231 or john.mitchell@bllaw.co.uk.