[Test-retest reliability of the Work-related Physical Capacity Evaluation]

Functional capacity evaluations are used to quantify and qualify the physical abilities of an individual in relation to the physical requirements of an occupation. One major observation associated with functional capacity evaluations is a lack of evidence on their psychometric properties.

This article presents the results of a study on the test-retest reliability of a functional capacity evaluation tool: the Physical Work Performance Evaluation (PWPE). The PWPE is an instrument for evaluating the physical work capacities of individuals with physical limitations resulting from a health problem.

The PWPE was administered twice to a convenience sample of 30 workers in good health.

In the section on 'Dynamic Strength', the tasks demonstrate a good test-retest reliability (0.79 < ICC < 0.91). The three sections and the global score of the PWPE demonstrate a moderate stability (0.43 < kappa > 0.52).

The PWPE score should be interpreted with caution and further studies on its psychometric properties will be necessary to clarify its clinical utility.