Manual Handling Risk Filters (21531)
Manual Handling Risk Filters
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has developed simple manual handling risk filters to help guide employers and workers in identifying low-risk tasks and deciding when a more detailed assessment is needed.
These filters offer a practical first step in helping employers to protect staff from manual handling injuries.
Although the law does not set specific weight limits, the filters provide general guidelines based on population data.
Staying within these limits usually indicates a low risk of injury, while working outside them increases the likelihood of harm.
The filters also consider factors such as posture, task frequency, and the nature of pushing or pulling actions.
The guideline weights provided are intended for infrequent lifting or lowering operations, assuming a rate of around 30 per hour.
Work at a comfortable pace, take regular breaks, and stretch to avoid strain. Don’t hold heavy loads for too long. These tips help prevent injuries and promote safe manual handling.
1-2 times a minute 
If the action is being repeated 1-2 times a minute, reduce weight by 30%
5-8 times a minute
If the action is being repeated 5-8 times a minute, reduce weight by 50%
12+ times a minute
If the action is being repeated 12+ times a minute, reduce weight by 80%