The aim of the study was to validate interview data concerning the duration
of four work postures (1) sitting, (2) standing/walking with hands above s
houlder level, (3) standing/walking with hands between shoulder and knuckle
level, and (4) standing/walking with hands below knuckle level. The self-r
eported time spent in each posture was tested in relation to observations a
nd technical measurements in 20 subjects during two full working days. The
linear relationships between self-reports and observations were strong for
the three postures; sitting (r(2) = 0.55), hands above shoulder level (r(2)
= 0.58) and hands below knuckle level (r(2) = 0.69). Thus, using this inte
rview technique, self-reports concerning time spent in (1) sitting, (2) sta
nding/walking with hands above shoulder level and, (3) standing/walking wit
h hands below knuckle level may be accurate enough for studying these work
postures in epidemiological studies. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rig
hts reserved.