He brings to the post a wealth of experience in the access industry. As chairman of the Ladder Association he was a founder member of the Access Industry Forum, the alliance for access, and has worked closely with the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) - in particular to introduce the now industry standard Ladder Association training scheme.

He has served on several standards committees and has long time experience of internal quality systems and management audits, especially QA management systems to ISO 9000.

David graduated from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in 1985 having successfully completed a BSc (Hons) in communication and control systems at the Cranfield Institute of Technology. During his subsequent career in the Regular Army he saw active service in Bosnia commanding an airmobile gun battery. He resigned his commission in 1996 leaving with the rank of senior captain.

In July 1996 he joined the family business - Ladder & Fencing Industries (Newent) Ltd - having meanwhile qualified as a teacher with the Open University. Since then he has overseen the successful development of the business which is now a leading manufacturer and supplier in the light access sector.

Comments PASMA managing director, Peter Bennett: "David is well known and respected throughout the industry and his qualifications and experience make him the perfect choice for the role of auditor. He will be a great asset to the organisation as we continue to advance safety and standards when working at height.

Married with three children, David lives in Monmouth. He lists his interests as classic cars, music and sport.