Mind your Back

Back Injury is not uncommon in adult. You probably had experienced some degree of back ache/pain during your entire life. Living here in England, I had witnessed quite a few people who’d been off sick due to varying degrees of back problems. It is spread out across all body built and profession – even office workers (poor posture whilst in front of your laptop for long periods can strain your back).

Back injury more often than not is a cumulative effect. One that builds up over time due to repetitive strains. To bore you not, here’s a quick guide that might be of help to assess yourself and others before you take on any particular manual handling. Just remember the word TILEE or ELITE.

Assess:

• Task – the actual task involve (lifting, pushing, pulling etc…)
  

• Individual – person’s capability/training (consider recent injury, recent illness, number od staff required, etc…)

• Load – is it do-able by one person? Lifting is a no-no if at all possible. Sliding is preferable. Don’t hesitate to call for extra help.

• Equipment – use appropriate handling equipment available (trolley, hoist, slide sheet, ergonomic computer chair)
  

• Environment – is the place safe to perform the procedure? Check the floor, lighting, space etc…