Did you know that falls from height are the main cause of fatalities at work?
Nationally, in 2008/09, ladders were involved in nearly a quarter of all falls from height.
In response to this trend, the City of Edinburgh Council is supporting a Ladder Exchange initiative led by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) aims to reduce death and injury.
This national scheme has already seen thousands of broken, bent and damaged ladders exchanged for new ones.
Anyone who wants to, can swap their broken, bent or damaged ladder for a new one at a discounted price, at participating retailers until 30 November 2010.
“There is nothing wrong with using a ladder if it is in good order, right for the job and used properly," says Councillor Robert Aldridge, Environmental Leader.
"However, you could be gambling with your life by using a dodgy one. Too many people suffer life-changing injuries or die each year because they used a faulty ladder. This initiative is open to anyone who wants to swap their broken, bent or damaged ladder for a new one."
Chris Ball, chairman of the Ladder Association, comments “Since it was first introduced, the Ladder Exchange has been an exemplary initiative that has helped contribute to ladder safety. Promising to attract even more support in 2010, the Ladder Association fully supports this practical example of successful co-operation between HSE, the ladder industry and its trade body.”
Full details of local retailers, along with advice and guidance on using ladders safely, are available on HSE’s website: http://www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm