Manual Handling Guideline Weight Checker
Look up the HSE guideline filter weight for your lift zone, reach, and sex. Based on HSE L23 Figure 20. These are FILTER values that indicate when a full risk assessment is required — they are NOT legal maximum weights.
There is NO single legal maximum weight in the UK. These are guideline FILTER values — exceeding them triggers a full assessment, not an automatic prohibition.
Manual Handling Guideline Weight Checker
HSE L23 / INDG143 / MHOR 1992Select your handling conditions to look up the HSE guideline filter weight. The result updates instantly.
Guideline Filter Weight
This is a FILTER value — not a legal maximum weight.
If the load exceeds this figure, a full risk assessment is required under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. It does NOT mean the load cannot be lifted — it means the risk must be properly assessed and reduced where reasonably practicable.
Rules from HSE L23
- If the hands pass through more than one zone, use the smallest filter weight.
- If the start or end of the lift is near a zone boundary, use the average of the two adjacent boxes.
- Reduce further for frequent handling (more than approximately once every 2 minutes).
- Values apply to infrequent lifting/lowering by a reasonably fit adult.
Assumptions
Source: HSE L23 Figure 20 / INDG143; Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (avoid/assess/reduce duty). There is no legal maximum weight in the UK — these are guideline filter weights only. Values apply to infrequent handling by a reasonably fit adult; reduce for repetitive tasks, unfavourable conditions, or individuals outside typical range.
Disclaimer
These guideline filter weights are taken from HSE L23 Figure 20 and are for initial risk assessment guidance only. They do not replace a full manual handling risk assessment. This calculator does not constitute legal or professional advice.
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HSE Guideline Filter Weights — Full Table
Source: HSE L23, "Guidance on Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992" (4th ed), Figure 20, p. 54.
These are FILTER values — NOT legal weight limits.
| Zone | Men close | Men arm's-length | Women close | Women arm's-length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head height (above shoulder) | 10 kg | 5 kg | 7 kg | 3 kg |
| Shoulder height | 20 kg | 10 kg | 13 kg | 7 kg |
| Elbow height (power zone) | 25 kg | 15 kg | 16 kg | 10 kg |
| Knuckle height | 20 kg | 10 kg | 13 kg | 7 kg |
| Mid lower-leg | 10 kg | 5 kg | 7 kg | 3 kg |
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