Are there any recommended weight limits for manual lifting?

Thanks for your question!

There are no legal limits for the weight that can be lifted at work.

20-25kg is considered heavy for most people. The limit of checked baggage weight at airports is 23kg, so if you’ve ever lugged around an overloaded suitcase you’ll know how strenuous it can be!

Generally speaking, the amount of weight you are able to transport depends on 4 factors:

·          The task – if it is carried out too frequently or for too long, it may impose unnecessary strain on the person’s body, regardless of whether it hits the 25kg mark or not.

·          The individual – when it comes down to it, everyone’s capabilities will vary. A number of factors will contribute to this, such as the person’s age or their physical dimensions.

·          The load – if it is oversized and bulky, then you may find yourself struggling to get a solid grip. This could lead to the load slipping out of your hands.

·          The environment – if there isn’t enough space or you can’t see properly, then manual handling tasks are simply more risky to carry out.

Reference:

Guidance on the Management of Manual Handling in the Workplace.