Are you lifting right?, have you ever noticed how hard this is when you are in pain.
You may have heard people say ‘there is no such thing as a perfect posture’, but you know what you will hear more and probably say yourself, certainly in osteopathic, physio and GP clinics up and down the country….
“If I lift like this or move this way I get severe pain in my back!”
Back pain after the common cold is the number one reason to visit the GP and certainly the number one reason to visit most injury clinics.
With manual handling training we use the phrase TILE, understanding this will significantly help you stay safe and back pain free.
TILE is a common acronym used to help remember the key factors to consider when assessing the risks associated with manual handling. The letters in TILE stand for:
T – Task: This refers to the manual handling task you are about to perform, such as lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling. You should consider the weight and size of the load, the distance you will be moving it, and any other factors that could make the task more difficult, such as an uneven or slippery surface.
I – Individual: This refers to the person performing the manual handling task. You should consider the individual’s physical capabilities, such as their strength, height, and any medical conditions that could affect their ability to perform the task safely.
L – Load: This refers to the object or load being lifted, carried, or moved. You should consider the weight, shape, and size of the load, as well as any hazardous characteristics, such as sharp edges or unstable contents.
E – Environment: This refers to the working environment in which the manual handling task is being performed. You should consider any factors that could make the task more difficult, such as restricted space, poor lighting, or slippery or uneven surfaces.
By considering each of these factors when assessing the risks associated with a manual handling task, you can identify potential hazards and develop appropriate controls to reduce the risk of injury. This can help ensure that manual handling tasks are performed safely and effectively.
