Last updated 11:48, Wednesday, 03 September 2008

A CARLISLE tool hire firm has teamed up with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in a bid to reduce the number of accidents caused by unsafe ladders.

Steve Winward: ‘Statistics from the HSE demonstrate the need for more safety awareness when working at height’

Speedy Hire - which operates 101 depots across the north west - is offering to trade in old or damaged ladders and part-exchange them for alternative, safer equipment.

The pledge is part of a UK-wide Ladder Exchange designed to drive down the number of deaths and injuries.

From September 1, HSE and local authority enforcement officers will be checking ladders as part of their visits and dodgy ladders could be taken away.

According to latest statistics from the HSE, falls from ladders caused 12 deaths to workers last year - more than a quarter of the total number caused by falls from height. Ladders were also responsible for nearly 1200 serious injuries.

These incidents are estimated to have cost the economy over £60m last year.

Staff at Speedy’s tool hire and access branches can offer guidance on the extensive range of equipment available.

A brochure is available in branches and online - www.speedyhire.com giving clear step ladder safety guidance advice.

Steve Winward, managing director, Speedy Hire Northern said: “Statistics from the HSE demonstrate the need for more safety awareness when working at height.

“People need to ensure their ladders are in proper working order and, just as importantly, that they are using the right piece of equipment for the job. Far too often, accidents are caused when a ladder is used incorrectly or in place of safer access equipment.”