Using old or unstable ladders can be a recipe for disaster, and can lead to serious and even fatal injuries.
Before using a ladder, it’s important to check it over thoroughly to ensure that it’s fit to use. However, it seems as though some people are failing to do this, as between 2008 and 2009, 35 people died and over 4,500 were injured as a result of an unsuitable ladder.
This is why the Health and Safety Executive launched a ladder amnesty- which allows businesses to get their ladders checked over, and get rid of any that are potentially dangerous.
The Health and Safety Executive’s Peter Brown said:
“We’ve had more than 900 ladders exchanged so far and we’re keen for more businesses to make the most of the offer before the end of the month. If you take a chance with ‘dodgy’ ladders you are risking your life.”
“Every month more than 100 people fall off a ladder at work and suffer serious injuries. So many of these accidents are avoidable and having safe equipment makes a huge difference.”
Over 900 ladders have been surrendered so far, but if you want to take advantage of the scheme you need to be quick as it ends on the 31st of December.
