Publication of the Manual Handling Operations Regulations (HSE 1992) focused attention on the use of mechanical aids for the purposes of moving and handling. However, nurses’ reluctance to use this equipment has been widely documented. The reasons for this are complex and the aim of this study was to examine in depth the effectiveness and acceptability of mechanical aids to nurses and clients. This article reports on the part of the study which surveyed nurses’ attitudes towards this equipment. The data were obtained by means of a semi-structured interview schedule. One hundred and eighty five nurses from a selection of specialties were interviewed. Common problems identified by the researchers were lack of proper training in mechanical aid use, mechanical aids and slings being unavailable or inaccessible, arbitrary use of mechanical aids and spatial constraints to mechanical aid use. Recommendations are made which aim to address the issues raised. Phases II and III of the study will appear in the next two issues.