NIOSH Lifting Equation - Calculating Recommended Weight Limit (RWL)

The equation is:

where LC is the load constant (23 kg) and other factors in the equation are:

• HM, the Horizontal Multiplier factor
• VM, the Vertical Multiplier factor
• DM, the Distance Multiplier factor
• FM, the Frequency Multiplier factor
• AM, the Asymmetric Multiplier factor
• CM, the Coupling Multiplier factor
• RWL, the Recommended Weight Limit

For each value, look up the corresponding factor and use this number in the equation. See Assessing Relevant Handling Factors for an explanation of terms.

To use the calculator, click on the values for each factor (or you can input your numbers directly into the second equation). Press the "Calculate RWL" button when you have finished selecting all of the values.

Horizontal Multiplier (HM): Horizontal distance (H, in cm) from the midpoint between the ankles to the hands while holding the object.

Vertical Multiplier (VM): The vertical distance (V, in cm) of the hands from the ground at the start of the lift.

Distance Multiplier (DM): The vertical distance (D, in cm) that the load travels.

Asymmetric Multiplier (AM): The twisting angle (A) of the body while lifting, measured in degrees.

Frequency Multiplier (FM): The frequency (F) of lifts and the duration of lifting (in minutes or seconds) over a workshift.

Coupling Multiplier (CM): The quality of grasp (or coupling, C) classified as good, fair or poor and depends on the body position (either standing or stooping).