Assessing manual handling of loads with the key indicator method
The Key Indicator Method (KIM) rates the physical strain of manual lifting, holding and carrying using a few key indicators. This guide explains point scores, risk ranges and when lifting aids pay off.
View lifting aidsWhat is the Key Indicator Method?
The Key Indicator Method (KIM) is a screening procedure developed by the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) to assess the strain of manually lifting, holding and carrying loads in a practical way. It satisfies the risk assessment required by the EU manual handling directive 90/269/EEC and national regulations.
The core idea is to rate a few meaningful key indicators and combine them with weighting factors into a single point score. That risk value shows whether, and how urgently, technical or organisational measures are needed.
- Legal basis: EU directive 90/269/EEC and national occupational safety law.
- Method: freely available from the BAuA and easy to document.
- Goal: prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).
- Users: safety officer, occupational physician or trained supervisor.
How are the key indicators scored?
The KIM for lifting, holding and carrying rates five key indicators. Each carries a weighting; a time rating then multiplies the sum of the other indicators to give the total score.
The risk value is calculated as (load rating + posture + conditions + further indicators) x time rating. Women are given lower load ratings than men, because the acceptable weights are set lower.
What are the risk ranges?
The point score is divided into four risk ranges. From range 3 redesign of the task is recommended; from range 4 measures are urgently required.
As a rough guide, single loads above 25 kg for men and about 15 kg for women are already critical on their own. Frequent repetition or awkward postures push even lighter loads quickly into a critical range.
- Range 1‑2: monitor and give ergonomic advice.
- Range 3: redesign the process, check lifting aids.
- Range 4: introduce aids immediately or split the load.
- Offer occupational health checks if staff report complaints.
Which lifting aids cut the strain?
If the risk value falls in range 3 or 4, manual handling should be replaced or supported by technical aids. The choice depends on the weight, geometry and travel distance of the load.
Frequently asked questions
From what weight should the KIM be applied?
As a rule of thumb, loads from about 3 kg moved regularly, or single loads above 10 kg, justify an assessment. Above 25 kg (men) or 15 kg (women) an assessment is practically always advisable.
Who may apply the Key Indicator Method?
In principle any trained person, in practice the safety officer, the occupational physician or an instructed supervisor. What matters is a realistic on-site observation of the task.
What does a score above 50 mean?
It corresponds to risk range 4. The strain is high and physical overload is possible even for healthy staff. The employer must take design measures such as introducing lifting aids or splitting the load.
Does a lifting aid replace the risk assessment?
No. Aids lower the risk, but the KIM assessment remains mandatory and must be repeated after a measure is introduced to prove its effectiveness.
Cut the strain with the right lifting aids?
From lift tables and pallet trucks to vacuum lifters, we supply aids that make lifting and carrying ergonomic and improve your KIM scores.
Legally sound
Assessment per EU directive and the BAuA method.
Ergonomics first
Solutions that relieve the back and spine.
Proven effective
Point scores comparable before and after the measure.
Expert advice
Our specialists help you choose.