TILE Manual Handling Assessment Method
Learn how to use the TILE framework to assess manual handling risks in your workplace. Task, Individual, Load, and Environment - the four key factors that determine whether a manual handling activity is safe.
What is TILE?
TILE is a systematic approach to assessing manual handling risks by examining four key factors.
Task
The nature of the work - what movements, postures, and actions are required to complete it.
Individual
The person doing the work - their capabilities, training, health conditions, and experience.
Load
The object being handled - its weight, size, shape, grip points, and stability.
Environment
The workplace conditions - space, flooring, temperature, lighting, and obstacles.
Why Use TILE for Manual Handling Assessment?
The TILE framework is recommended by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and health and safety bodies worldwide as the standard method for assessing manual handling risks. It provides a structured approach that ensures no important factor is overlooked.
Many workplace injuries occur because assessments focus too narrowly on just one factor - typically the weight of the load. TILE ensures you consider the complete picture, recognising that a light load can still cause injury if the task is awkward, the individual is unsuited, or the environment is hazardous.
TILE is not just a compliance exercise - it is a practical tool that helps you identify genuine risks and implement effective controls before injuries occur.
Benefits of TILE Assessment
- Systematic coverage of all risk factors
- Consistent approach across your organisation
- Easy to learn and apply
- Meets HSA compliance requirements
- Identifies risks often overlooked
- Supports practical risk reduction
When to Use TILE
- Before introducing new manual handling tasks
- When reviewing existing procedures
- After an incident or near-miss
- When workplace conditions change
- During new employee induction
- As part of regular safety reviews
Detailed TILE Assessment Guide
Task Assessment
The Task element examines what physical actions are required to complete the manual handling activity. This includes the movements, postures, and duration involved.
Questions to consider when assessing the Task:
- Does the task require twisting, bending, or stooping?
- Is reaching above shoulder height or below knee height needed?
- How far must the load be carried?
- How frequently is the task repeated?
- Does the task require sustained holding or support?
- Is there adequate rest between repetitions?
- Can the task be mechanised or redesigned?
Individual Assessment
The Individual element considers the specific person who will perform the task. People vary in their physical capabilities, and what is safe for one person may be risky for another.
Questions to consider about the Individual:
- Has the person received appropriate manual handling training?
- Do they have any health conditions affecting their capability?
- Are they pregnant or returning from injury?
- Do they have adequate strength for the task?
- What is their experience with this type of work?
- Is special clothing or PPE required and available?
- Are they working alone or with assistance available?
Load Assessment
The Load element examines the object being handled. Weight is just one factor - size, shape, grip, and predictability are equally important.
Questions to consider about the Load:
- What is the weight of the load?
- Is the weight distributed evenly or is it unbalanced?
- Can the load be gripped securely?
- Is the load bulky, making it difficult to keep close?
- Does the load contain contents that may shift?
- Is the load sharp, hot, cold, or otherwise hazardous?
- Can the load be split into smaller units?
Environment Assessment
The Environment element considers the workplace conditions where the task is performed. Even simple tasks become hazardous in poor conditions.
Questions to consider about the Environment:
- Is there enough space to adopt safe postures?
- Is the floor surface level, stable, and non-slip?
- Are there obstacles, trip hazards, or stairs?
- Is the lighting adequate to see clearly?
- What is the temperature? Hot or cold conditions?
- Is there adequate ventilation?
- Are there time pressures or distractions?
Remember: A risk assessment using TILE is only useful if it leads to action. Once you identify risks, you must implement controls to reduce them to the lowest practicable level.
Using TILE Results to Reduce Risk
After completing a TILE assessment, use the findings to implement the hierarchy of controls:
- Eliminate - Can you remove the manual handling task entirely through automation or process redesign?
- Substitute - Can you use mechanical aids such as trolleys, hoists, or conveyor systems?
- Engineering controls - Can you modify workstations, improve storage heights, or provide lifting equipment?
- Administrative controls - Can you rotate workers, limit repetitions, or improve scheduling?
- Training - Ensure all workers receive appropriate Manual Handling Training in safe techniques.
TILE Assessment Questions
Learn TILE and More in Our Manual Handling Course
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