It could be a serious concern, especially to people who might not realize exactly how delicate a snake's ribs and spine are. A five foot drop(assuming your girlfriend is that short) is quite a ways to drop, falling wrong could potentially injure him.
That said, I have had to grab my snakes a lot, especially when they are younger and apparently clumsier. I haven't missed a grab yet. As long as you were being careful, it wouldn't be an issue.
Wolfy
