A LADDER safety campaign being run by the Health and Safety Executive is being supported by Epping Forest District Council.

As part of the campaign, businesses in Essex are being urged to ditch their ‘dodgy’ ladders and take part in an exchange scheme where old ladders can be traded in for a discount on a new set.

HSE inspector Mark Jordan said: “We haven’t banned ladders, we just want anyone working at height to use the right ladder for the job and use it safely. Anyone who uses a ladder as part of their job should consider the risks involved in ladder use and adopt sensible health and safety measures.”

District council environmental health officer Sonia Margerum said: “Falls from ladders result in considerable trauma for the people injured, their colleagues, their family and friends and considerable costs to employers.

“Therefore ladders should only be used for low-risk, short duration work. If a ladder is the right equipment to use it should be in good condition, prevented from slipping and used by competent people.”