What is the Revised NIOSH lifting equation?
The equation is: LC x HM x VM x DM x AM x FM x CM = RWL where LC is the load constant (23 kg) and other factors in the equation are: For each value, look up the corresponding factor and use this number in the equation. NOTE: Please see this alternate page for a functioning calculator. See Assessing Relevant Handling Factors for an explanation of terms. 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).
- context HM, the Horizontal Multiplier factor
- context VM, the Vertical Multiplier factor
- context DM, the Distance Multiplier factor
- context FM, the Frequency Multiplier factor
- context AM, the Asymmetric Multiplier factor
- context CM, the Coupling Multiplier factor
- context RWL, the Recommended Weight Limit