THE NEW LADDERBOOK FROM THE LADDER ASSOCIATION

08 July 2009

A step in the right direction 2009 edition offers more top tips on ladder safety and best practice.
Ten things you need to know about ladders, how to keep them in good working order and how to apply the Ladder Association’s STEP methodology, are just three of the updated sections in the association’s new 12-page LadderBook sponsored by HSS Training.

Containing a foreword from Alison Wellens, head of the HSE’s Slips, Trips and Falls Team, and an interview with Geoffrey Podger, chief executive of the Health & Safety Executive in which he confirms that ladders are not banned, the LadderBook takes as its theme ‘If it’s right to use a ladder, use the right ladder and get trained to use it safely’.
Dispelling many of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the use of ladders and stepladders, the free A5 publication is intended to be a handy reference for use in the office or on site. Not surprisingly, it advocates training as the most important tool in helping to reduce falls from height.
Comments Don Aers, chair of the Ladder Association and technical manager at the Youngman Group: “Demonstration of competence is a key requirement of the work at height legislation. It’s essential that users have an understanding of the legislation and regulations, product standards and classifications and, of course, the hazards they are likely to encounter on site.”
Mark Winfield, director of HSS Training agrees: “We recognise the uniqueness of the LadderBook in the industry and support its efforts to promote the safest means possible of using ladders in the workplace. Official Ladder Association training features strongly in our new training brochure.”
Other sections refer to useful websites, risk avoidance and planning ahead. To obtain a free copy visit the association’s website www.ladderassociation.org.uk The site also describes the aims and objectives of the Ladder Association and the benefits of membership.

About the Ladder Association
The Ladder Association is a modern, forward-looking organisation with 55 member companies. Committed to progressing safety and best practice step-by-step, the association is adapting to the challenges facing the industry by positioning itself as the clear and acknowledged focus for ladders and stepladders in the marketplace. It is a major contributor to UK and European standards setting, works closely with the HSE and is the UK’s leading provider of ladder training.
It is a founder member of the Access Industry Forum (AIF), the alliance for access.
www.ladderassociation.org.uk

About HSS Training
HSS Training specialises in delivering a wide range of working at height training focused on the safe construction and/or use of ladders, mobile access towers and powered access (MEWPs). Through its nationwide Centres of Excellence it aims to keep users on top of all the regulations, legislation and job skills they need to stay safe, motivated and productive. HSS Training has been meeting the training needs of customers since 2000.
www.hsstraining.com

For More Information
Please contact Chris Kendall direct on 01484 681258, by mobile on 07973 727356 or by email at chris.kendall@ckandassociates.co.uk