HSS Hire, the nationwide tool and equipment hire company, has teamed up with The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to promote working at height and ladder safety.

The 2009 Ladder Exchange initiative was launched last week at the new HSS Hire branch in Bootle, Merseyside, with professional builder and Big Brother star Craig Phillips officiating.

From 1 September, unsafe ladders could be confiscated by HSE and local authority enforcement officers. The Ladder Exchange encourages both trade and DIY users to ensure compliance by exchanging damaged, broken or old ladders for a discount on some brand new, safe ones. Although no official ladder inspections will take place, HSE and the local authority enforcement officers will take action if they see an unsafe ladder being used.

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Peter Brown HSE Head of Work Environment, Radiation and Gas Division said: "In 2007/08 58 workers died and over 3600 were seriously injured as a result of a fall from height in the workplace - over a quarter of these incidents involved ladders.

"We want anyone working at height to use the right ladder for the job and to use it safely. Ladder Exchange is the perfect opportunity for businesses to assess the risks involved in using ladders and to adopt sensible health and safety measures."

Head of Health and Safety at HSS, David Wilson, added: "The ladder is, and always will be, integral to working at height but it’s also not without risk – as HSE figures show. However, that risk can be managed by using the right equipment, by ensuring that it’s fit for purpose and by being aware of the safest working practices. We’re able to help on all counts which is why we’re delighted to yet again be involved in the Ladder Exchange."

All HSS branches will be offering a discount of up to 50% on the purchase of selected ladders and all old ladders will be recycled. In addition, HSS Training will be offering a 20% discount on all related ladder training courses.

For further information visit: www.hss.com/ladderexchange