Would you use a ladder like this?

Missing rungs and bent sides - these are just a small selection of the 'dodgy' ladders that have been surrendered so far under this year's 'ladder exchange' from the HSE.

The exchange, led by the Health and Safety Executive, closes its doors on 31 December, so time is running out for businesses to trade in their old, damaged or broken ladders for some new ones

Run in conjunction with retailers, manufacturers and trade associations, the scheme offers businesses the chance to get their ladders checked and, where necessary, exchange them for new ones at a heavily discounted price.

In 2008/09 a total of 35 workers died and over 4500 employees suffered major injury as a result of a fall from height in the workplace. Many of these incidents could be avoided by using the right equipment and taking simple precautions.

HSE is working in close partnership with industry to ensure that anyone involved in working at height uses the right equipment for the job and uses it safely.

Peter Brown, HSE 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."

When it comes to ladder safety, always ask yourself three simple questions:

• Do you need a ladder or should you use something different?
• Is it the right ladder?
• Are you using the ladder safely?

The exchange discount can be up to 50 per cent off and ladders can be exchanged at any of the partner retail outlets.

For more information on the exchange visit HSE website http://www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm or for ladder training or any other questions please contact Total Access on 01785 850333 or visit the rest of our website www.totalaccess.co.uk

The ladder exchange programme is one part of HSE's ongoing 'Shattered Lives' campaign which aims to reduce the number of fatal and major injuries each year that result from falling from a height.