This paper describes Phase III of the study of mechanical aids used within the NHS, the aim of which was to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of mechanical aids within the service. Phases I and II of the study consisted of interviewing nurses and clients concerning their attitudes towards mechanical aids and observing nurses in the clinical area using mechanical aids. Phase III consisted of an experiment being undertaken to compare the usability of a number of mechanical aids for controlled tasks in a laboratory environment. The aim of this was to compare a number of different mechanical aids currently available, for perceived safety, comfort, ease of use and manoeuvrability in ward simulated conditions.