Businesses urged to step up now to meet Ladder Exchange Scheme deadline

Businesses have a fortnight left to take advantage of an innovative scheme that is saving lives by offering substantial discounts on new ladders when they are part exchanged for damaged ones.

The ‘Ladder Exchange Scheme’ is run by The Ladder Association and workplace equipment supplier Slingsby, which sells more than 35,000 workplace products including a wide range of ladders and access solutions. The scheme comes to an end on 30th November 2012.

Lee Wright, Marketing Director of Slingsby, explains: "The Ladder Exchange Scheme is now in its sixth year and during that time more than 10,000 risky ladders have been handed over which has undoubtedly saved lives and prevented countless accidents. More than half of all fatal accidents are caused by falls from height and in many cases people can fall just a few feet off a dodgy stepladder with serious consequences. It’s a problem that no industry is immune from.

"Before ever climbing a ladder it’s important to check that it’s sturdy and that all the rungs are tight and in place. There’s no excuse for using a damaged ladder but all too often people still take chances, especially when it comes to jobs that should be quick and easy such as changing light bulbs.

"Since this year’s Ladder Exchange Scheme kicked off at the start of September it’s had a fantastic response and yet again we’ve seen a number of ladders being handed over that are very frightening and definitely should not be lurking in workplaces. There’s now just over a fortnight left to take advantage of the scheme and save money on a wide range of brand new ladders and other access solutions so we would urge any businesses with dodgy ladders to act now."