WorkCover - New South Wales

There is no longer a prescribed maximum weight limit for lifting for either men or women.

The weight of the load needs to be considered in relation to a number of other risk factors such as the:

• actions and movements
• working posture and position when lifting
• duration and frequency of manual handling
• location of loads and the distances moved
• characteristics of the load.

Light loads can still be a problem if for example they are lifted incorrectly or if light loads are lifted in an environment that is unsafe.

The National Code of Practice: Manual Handling indicates that the risk of injury increases when:

• lifting weights of more than 4.5 kg while seated
• lifting weights above the range of 16-20 kg. (weights over 55 kg should not be lifted without mechanical assistance or team lifting;
• pushing, pulling and sliding objects that are difficult to move. 

Young workers under the age of 18 years should not be required to lift, lower or carry more than 16 kg without mechanical or other assistance and/or particular training for the task.