Browse by subject - Quality of work indicators
13 May 2013: Working conditions and occupational risks: SUMER 2010 (France / Survey data report [ or view as 
size 445 kb])
The latest Medical Monitoring Survey of Professional Risks (SUMER 2010) draws on employee questionnaires and employee interviews with company medical officers to look at working conditions in France. Data are presented on work organisation (including working time), behavioural indicators and exposure to potentially harmful working conditions in the public and private sectors. Exposure to occupational risks differed considerably between sectors and subsectors.
10 May 2013: Impact of the crisis on gender equality (EU Level / Information update)
A new report for the European Commission prepared by the European Network of Experts on Gender Equality examines the impact of the crisis on the situation of women and men at work and on gender equality policies. The report found a significant impact for both men and women in areas such as type of contract, working hours, rights at work, and pressure and harassment at work, although the worsening of working conditions tended to affect men and women slightly differently.
07 May 2013: Job satisfaction among community nurses (Lithuania / Information update)
Job satisfaction levels among community nurses in Lithuania have been investigated by researchers at Šiauliai State College. The findings show that the main factors affecting nurses’ job satisfaction among are work autonomy, satisfaction with work organisation and favourable working conditions. The research established a scale of factors tailored to the professional activities of nurses and also broke down responses by age, for those above and below the age of 45.
19 April 2013: Employees encouraged to aid business regeneration (Finland / Information update)
Employees are being encouraged by Finland’s government to get involved in the regeneration of businesses through an innovative workplace development programme. The wide-ranging Leader programme (Liideri) is being financed through the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation, Tekes, and forms part of Finland’s National Working Life Development Strategy 2020. The initiative emphasises the need for wide-ranging social participation to encourage growth.
03 April 2013: Highest paid report greatest satisfaction at work (Poland / Information update)
A recent survey examines views on how satisfied Polish employees are with aspects of their work. It shows that 78% are generally happy at work, while 81% consider their job important and that it has significance. However, only 57% thought their work allowed them to use all their skills and just under a third of respondents were unhappy with their wages. In general, respondents were likely to be more positive about the fulfilment they get from work than about the stability of their job.
13 March 2013: Combining work and childcare still difficult for women (Czech Republic / Information update)
A special report based on the Czech Republic’s regular Labour Force Survey has focused on work-life balance. Research was carried out in 2010, and revealed a lack of childcare facilities was forcing women to take long career breaks. Women said there was a lack of nursery care for very young children, combined with a shortage of part-time jobs with flexible working hours. Their strategy to cope with this involves a long career break followed by a return to non-flexible full-time work.
08 March 2013: Scope of social fund in enterprises (Slovakia / Information update)
The social policy of a business is important in Slovakia and is regulated by legislation. It has been a factor in the culture of industrial policy for some time. One part of a business’s social policy is the social fund, used to pay for a variety of services for employees, and most commonly for catering. Money for the fund comes from employers setting aside a sum equivalent to a percentage of the total annual wage bill. The amount can be increased during collective agreement negotiations.
19 December 2012: Emotionally demanding work most subject to health risks (Belgium / Information update)
A new report on the quality of work and employment in Belgium is based on data collected for the European Working Conditions Survey 2010. The report is wide-ranging and establishes seven job quality types in the Belgian labour market, identifying health risks associated with them. A significant finding is that opportunities for good quality work are not evenly distributed across the workforce and depend on a range of factors such as gender, age, occupation, sector and company size.
18 October 2012: Effects of work environment and family–life balance (Spain / Information update)
Work environment has a significant impact on the commitment of employees, according to a report that investigates the contrast between the attitudes of workers whose employers promote work–life balance, and those that do not. Researchers also found that men were less likely than women to be satisfied with their work–life balance, and that commitment to a company making no effort to help employees balance work and family life was dramatically lower among older workers.
19 September 2012: Survey finds men more exposed to physical risks at work than women (Denmark / Information update)
In April 2012, the Danish National Institute of Public Health published its report Health and Morbidity in Denmark 2010 – & developments since 1987. The survey looked at aspects of the working environment – both psychosocial and physical. Respondents were asked how they felt about the demands of their workload, the influence they had over their jobs, about working conditions, about lifting and carrying, and about how much support they were given by their managers.
07 September 2012: Areva signs agreement on quality of life at work (France / Information update)
A collective agreement on the development of initiatives to improve employees’ quality of life at work was signed by the Areva Group and social partners on 31 May 2012. The agreement recognises that improving the quality of life at work can be of benefit to both the company and its employees. It adopts a shared approach involving all stakeholders and includes a number of new measures aimed at improving work–life balance. Areva has set up a national unit to monitor progress.
16 August 2012: Social partners agree on definition for quality of working life (France / Information update)
In preparation for major negotiations on a national interprofessional agreement due to take place on 21 September 2012, French social partners have agreed a common definition of the quality of working life. As a result, the debate will be focused on an agreed list of eight indicators. These include a commitment at all levels to take into account issues in a worker’s personal life, ensuring employees’ voices are heard, and offering a route to personal development.
31 July 2012: Netherlands EWCO CAR on Working conditions in the retail sector – National contribution (Netherlands / National Contribution)
Based on the Netherlands Working Condition Survey (NWCS), this report exaines working conditions in the retail sector in the Netherlands. It concludes that the retail sector is a sector in which many young employees work. These employees often work part-time and have a temporary contract. The retail sector does worse on the traditional ergonomic risk factors, but generally better on the psychosocial risks, with the exception of unwanted behaviour from third parties (i.e. not colleagues but clients, patients, passengers etc.). Intimidation, bullying as well, such as physical violence by third parties are overall more common in the Dutch retail sector. Age discrimination is also more common in retail. This is also reflected by the actions taken by the government and the social parties that for a large part focus on the reduction of violence and crime in the sector.
30 July 2012: Romania: EWCO CAR on Working conditions in the retail sector (Romania / National Contribution)
Commerce in general, and retail trade in particular, followed a spectacular upward trend in the time span between 2000 and 2009, both in terms of number of retail trading companies and aggregate turnover, and in terms of employment and number of employees. The crisis years that followed the upsurge, 2009–2011, slowed down investment in development and reduced the number of employees. A prominent feature of this process is the decrease of the number of small and medium 'corner' retail traders, most of them swallowed up by hyper- and supermarkets. Also growing, in the past decade, was the average salary of retail workers, although it is still below the national average. More than one third (38%) of the persons employed in the retail sector claim that they are exposed to at least one risk factor at the workplace. The actions undertaken by the new employers and the state authorities do not seem to explicitly address the issue of securing better working conditions for the employees.
28 March 2012: Working environment in elderly care (Denmark / Information update)
Recent research suggests that working conditions in the Danish elderly care sector are under pressure from new demands, which change the potential to create meaning and identity at work. While one study concludes that the quality of the working environment fell overall between 2005 and 2008, a new book on elderly care in Scandinavia investigates how employees can still produce meaning and identity at work, and suggests which dilemmas must be addressed by management.
21 March 2012: Stable working conditions with decline in work disability (Netherlands / Survey data report [ or view as size 173 kb])
The quality of work in the Netherlands remains quite stable, with a small increase in exposure to time pressure. Despite the stable working conditions, fewer workers feel that protective measures are needed. Changes in work disability regulations have led to far fewer workers dropping out of employment due to disability. However, it appears that some employees with health issues voluntarily choose to leave the workforce.
27 February 2012: Job satisfaction factors among university staff (Lithuania / Information update)
A leading Lithuanian university conducted a survey among its staff in 2010 to discover what causes job satisfaction or dissatisfaction, and to explore attitudes among various groups of employees. Its findings suggest they are motivated most by favourable public attitutes towards their profession, good relationships with colleagues and managers, and the nature of their work. Dissatisfaction was caused by heavy workloads, group work and inadequate conflict management.
10 February 2012: Effects of physically demanding work on older workers (France / Information update)
The Health and Career (SIP) survey 2007 shows that 35% of older workers have been exposed to at least one type of physical difficulty at work for at least fifteen years. These people are less likely to be in good health and also less likely to be in employment than older workers who are not in jobs that expose them to physical risk. This suggests that persistent physical demands or difficulties at work may be damaging to health and could lead to an early exit from the job market for some workers.
05 December 2011: Employees are satisfied with their work (Estonia / Information update)
Research by Statistics Estonia based on data from the Work Life Survey 2009 shows that, in general, Estonian employees are satisfied with their work. There were only minor differences in satisfaction by employment sector and gender. Employees aged 65 and older were most satisfied with their work and 50–64-year-olds least satisfied. The analysis also examined satisfaction with job security, job autonomy, responsibilities, employee needs and satisfaction with remuneration.
07 October 2011: Employees favour security and stability in current crisis (Greece / Information update)
According to a recent survey by Adecco Greece of 500 men and women aged 26 and over, employee expectations change in times of financial crisis. The survey found that a sense of security and stability was the most important characteristic that 32% of participants sought during the economic crisis; only 4% considered pay to be important at such a time. The majority (92%) showed a willingness to be flexible over pay during the crisis if other factors were satisfactory.
15 September 2011: Monitoring improvements in quality of work in Flanders (Belgium / Survey data report [ or view as size 120 kb])
In 2001 the Flemish Government and social partners agreed to increase substantially the quality of jobs in the region. The Flemish workability monitor was developed to help determine progress in implementing this policy. This survey data report reviews the methods and key findings of the workability monitor between 2004 and 2010. The ‘workability’or quality of work rate increased from 52.3% in 2004 to 54.3% in 2010. This means that over half of Flemish employees do not suffer from stress at work, have a job that motivates them and provides sufficient learning opportunities, and achieve work–life balance.
05 August 2011: Impact of subcontracting on working conditions (France / Information update)
A report on subcontracting has been published by France’s Research and Statistics Department (DARES). The survey-based research examines the impact of subcontracting on working conditions and has found that the practice varies by sector and involves workforces with particular characteristics. Although subcontracted work is found to be more intense and risky, the levels of job satisfaction and job security are only slightly lower than in the economy generally.
28 July 2011: Majority of Czechs are satisfied with their jobs (Czech Republic / Information update)
Most Czech workers are satisfied with their jobs, according to the findings of the quantitative survey ‘Quality of working life’ carried out by Public Opinion Research Institute and Occupational Safety Research Institute in 2006. A greater degree of satisfaction was expressed by people who had a higher level of educational attainment and higher status jobs with better pay, than those who did not. Self-employed workers were found to be more satisfied than employees.
28 July 2010: New survey reveals sharp variation in working conditions across sectors (Ireland / Information update)
A new survey reveals significant variations in working conditions in Ireland according to economic sector and employment characteristics. The survey looks at employer provision of work-related benefits such as pensions, childcare subsidies and medical cover. It also examines accommodation of employee-friendly working, access to workplace training and access to employment rights according to occupation, gender, sector, age group and nationality.
23 June 2010: Case study examines working conditions of women in large retail chains (Poland / Information update)
The KARAT gender equality coalition of organisations and individuals has conducted a case study on working conditions and the observance of workers’ rights among female employees in supermarkets and hypermarkets. The research explored and identified the areas and most frequents forms in which workers’ rights were infringed, as well as looking at labour law in practice. Violations concerning working time and health and safety regulations were reported.
04 May 2010: Employees report dissatisfaction with pay (France / Information update)
In 2007, pay was a major source of dissatisfaction among workers. Some 55% of employees in the private sector rate their salary at a level below six out of 10 points. Only 28% of workers consider that their professional experience is fairly rewarded. The gap between actual pay and the salary that would be considered as ‘normal’ is wide: for half of employees, this gap amounts to more than €330 a month. The scale of these ‘normal’ wages is more equitable than actual pay.
09 April 2010: Survey explores trends in working environment and health (Sweden / Survey data report [ or view as size 123 kb])
The Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health aims to study relations between the work environment and health over time. It follows on from the 2003 and 2005 Swedish Work Environment Surveys, and intends to follow the same group of people with questions about working and living conditions and health. Research based on the survey has covered issues such as downsizing, leadership, control and flexibility, and their consequences for health.
06 April 2010: Working poor in Europe – Spain (Spain / National Contribution)
Working poor rates in Spain are among the highest in Europe, partly due to the increase in precarious forms of employment. The main social policies pertain to unemployment and non-contributory pensions for elderly and disabled people, while transfers directed at households with economically active members have less importance. Social dialogue is predominantly successful in topics such as retirement, unemployment and dependency; however, it focuses less on in-work poverty.
31 March 2010: Sick leave and fear of losing one’s job (Sweden / Information update)
A survey conducted in 2009 by the Swedish Association of Occupational Health and the Swedish Extended Performance Satisfaction Index investigates employees’ attitudes towards future employment from a health perspective. The survey concludes that 7.8% of all employees are worried about losing their job within the next two years due to poor health. For employees on long-term sick leave, the proportion is 37.3%.
22 March 2010: Proposal to screen and certify workplaces in order to improve work environment (Sweden / Information update)
A government report evaluates the potential benefits and opportunities associated with market-oriented policy instruments in the working environment. The report investigates the possible implementation of a Danish system of screening and certification of workplaces, as well as a number of other measures. The report concludes that further implementation of such policy instruments would improve the working environment and its role as a means of competition.
22 March 2010: Trends in employment and job quality in Flanders over 25 years (Belgium / Information update)
The Flemish government has published for the first time an outline of the ‘social state’ of the region, summarising the main trends over the last 25 years. With regard to the field of work, the report concludes that the rate of employment and entrepreneurship has increased. In addition, a stable regime of labour conditions and industrial relations is found; however, the study identified a polarising trend in job quality related to a skill-segmented labour market.
12 March 2010: Working conditions in health and social work sector (Bulgaria / Information update)
A study conducted by the Institute for Social and Trade Union Research examines working conditions in establishments providing health and social services in Bulgaria. It also aims to assess the main activities of the working conditions committees. Among the most frequently cited occupational risk factors are stress, and shift and night work. Accidents in the health and social work sector have increased in recent years, despite declining in other sectors.
08 March 2010: Citizens voice concerns over health and safety at work in EU poll (Slovenia / Information update)
In 2009, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work released the results of a European-wide survey on safety and health at work. According to the findings, Slovenian citizens are concerned that the economic crisis may adversely affect workplace health and safety. Although respondents feel they are well informed about health and safety at work, they believe that ill health is often caused by work and that health and safety has deteriorated in the past five years.
08 March 2010: How Europeans assess health and safety at work (EU Level / Information update)
Europe’s citizens are well informed about occupational health and safety, while also being concerned about the impact of the economic crisis and recession on their health and safety at work. These are the findings of a pan-European survey on safety and health at work, carried out by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. However, there is some fear that the improvements which Europeans have seen in this regard will be eroded by the economic crisis.
05 February 2010: Negative health outcomes resulting from bullying in the workplace (Denmark / Information update)
A recent Danish study confirms that bullying leads to sleep problems and symptoms of severe stress among victims. Moreover, witnesses to bullying are found to react in the same manner, albeit to a lesser degree. On the positive side, systematic and frequent exposure to bullying is quite limited. However, negative behaviour in the workplace is very common, with 79.5% of the respondents being exposed at least sometimes to work-related negative acts.
26 January 2010: Changes in the quality of working life over four decades (Finland / Survey data report [ or view as size 84 kb])
The Finnish Quality of Work Life Surveys between 1977 and 2008 analyse working conditions over four decades. The data reveal that work continues to be an important area of life for Finnish people. Workers remain loyal to their workplace and committed to their work. The results also show changes in many respects. Opportunities for self-development and influencing work have grown, and work has become more varied. However, the mental burden of work, time pressure and job uncertainties have risen.
07 December 2009: Role of employee participation in improving working environment (Norway / Information update)
In general, Norwegian undertakings have implemented the basic arrangements for creating cooperation in developing the working environment, with safety delegates, working environment committees, trade unions and occupational health services in place. However, a status quo seems to have developed, with organisational matters being mainly handled by management while participation and employee–management relations are primarily handled by employees.
02 December 2009: Public administration employees report problems due to working on computers (Czech Republic / Information update)
A survey on work environment and working conditions in public administration showed that working with computers is one of the biggest sources of discomfort for public administration employees. For instance, 74% of them report having eye tiredness and 70% cite musculoskeletal disorders. Although information technologies are now a fundamental tool in this sector, one third of respondents declare that they do not lighten their workload.
20 November 2009: Gender differences in quality of work and life (Bulgaria / Information update)
A study carried out in the framework of the project ‘QUALITY of life in a changing Europe’ aimed to review gender differences in quality of work and life. The survey findings show that men are in more privileged positions at work, while women are more committed to the company. Gender differences are registered concerning most of the study’s indicators of work quality, including autonomy, job satisfaction, supervisor support, job security and work–life balance.
05 October 2009: Working conditions and quality of life in Spanish workplaces (Spain / Survey data report [ or view as size 92 kb])
The Sixth National Survey on Working Conditions reveals that almost one quarter of workers consider that their work is affecting their health, and almost three quarters suffer from musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, 71% consider that they are exposed to some kind of risk in the workplace. In general, the most affected occupational groups from more demanding working conditions are healthcare staff, construction workers, farmers, drivers, stockbreeders and fishermen. On the other hand, the 2007 survey on Quality of Life in the Workplace shows that 70.6% of Spanish workers are either satisfied or very satisfied with their job. The survey also reveals that significant differences remain between the sexes in caring activities with children.
25 September 2009: Migrants subject to poor working and employment conditions (Spain / Information update)
According to a study by the Centre for the Research of Health at Work, work-related accidents in Spain are more common among migrant workers compared with Spanish workers. In addition, a large proportion of migrant workers reveal that they are exposed to precarious working and employment conditions that impact negatively on their health. Thus, work precariousness may also lead to social precariousness, adding to the disadvantaged position of migrants in Spanish society.
25 September 2009: Commuting patterns among Hungarian employees (Hungary / Information update)
A study was carried out to explore Hungarian workers’ commuting patterns and experience. The study examined the means of transport used, the duration of the travel, the distance between the workplace and home, and the commuting area. In addition, the survey explored demographic, occupational and sectoral aspects of commuting. Almost 95% of all employed people use some means of transport to get to their workplaces.
25 September 2009: New tool for measuring quality of working life (Czech Republic / Information update)
A new tool has been designed to measure the quality of working life in the Czech Republic, based on subjective assessments of workers. The tool is based on standard, large-scale questionnaire surveys. It aims to map a wide range of aspects characterising working life, while taking into account not only an individual’s satisfaction with each aspect of work but also the importance of these factors for the worker.
14 September 2009: Work appraisal discussions now commonplace (Finland / Information update)
More than half of employees in Finland have had a personal appraisal discussion with a superior in the past 12 months, according to the Finnish Quality of Work Life Survey 2008. Overall, 76% of these employees stated that they were satisfied with the discussions. In fact, the European Working Conditions Survey 2005 found that Finland had the highest score (79%) regarding the incidence of frank discussions with supervisors about work performance; the average is 48%.
14 September 2009: Impact of workplace changes on health and well-being (Norway / Information update)
A comprehensive survey among 10,000 workers in Norway has examined the extent of company reorganisation and downsizing in the country, as well as their impact on job insecurity, job satisfaction and work-related health problems. The results confirm that reorganisation and downsizing have a variety of negative consequences. The study also confirms that a lack of information and consultation are associated with poor quality of work indicators.
14 September 2009: Security personnel subject to low pay and long hours (Poland / Information update)
Polish security companies tend to employ workers on the basis of service contracts or contracts for completing a specific task. Fully-fledged employment contracts are rare in the security industry; as a result, most security guards are not entitled to employee benefits such as paid leave. Moreover, they tend to receive low wages and work long hours, with their employers paying reduced social insurance contributions. Compensation for night work has sparked controversy.
31 August 2009: Disparities in quality of work linked to education and socioeconomic status (Denmark / Information update)
A recent study published by the Economic Council of the Labour Movement examines the link between educational levels and socioeconomic status on the one hand, and the quality of the working environment on the other hand. The study finds that overall risk exposure is inversely proportional to workers’ length of education and socioeconomic status. Moreover, the quality of the working environment appears to be closely related to the incidence and duration of absence from work.
05 August 2009: Slovenian work values before and after EU accession (Slovenia / Survey data report [ or view as size 401 kb])
This report presents the preferences and opinions of Slovenians regarding aspects of working conditions in 1997 and 2005. The results are based on the Slovene Public Opinion Survey as part of the Work Orientations module of the International Social Survey Programme. The survey reveals that what people deem important in their work has remained relatively stable over time: job security, having an interesting job and a high income were the most important work values in both 1997 and 2005.
29 July 2009: Improving working conditions has positive impact on safety environment (Netherlands / Information update)
Data from the Netherlands Survey on Working Conditions show that poor working conditions and a need for measures to improve them are related to a negative perception of the workplace safety environment. The latter is rated relatively positively in sectors with dangerous and physically demanding working conditions such as construction and manufacturing, where measures to improve working conditions are often taken; the education sector scores lowest in this regard.
29 June 2009: Social workers express dissatisfaction with job safety and wages (Lithuania / Information update)
A 2008 survey in Lithuania aimed to analyse the working conditions of people doing social work, to assess the professional risks involved and to identify opportunities for improving their working conditions. The results showed that most of the social workers felt that their relations with colleagues and superiors were good, as were the opportunities for improving their qualifications. However, most respondents were not satisfied with their wages and the safety of the job.
14 April 2009: Impact of economic crisis on job satisfaction (Austria / Information update)
Starting with the meltdown of the financial markets, the global economic crisis has reached the real economy. The latest wave of the Working Climate Survey shows how this development is perceived by employees in Austria. Optimism among employees regarding Austria’s economic future has declined, although many workers viewed positively the economic future of their company. Moreover, job satisfaction among workers with a migration background is relatively low.
01 April 2009: Measuring satisfaction with key elements of working life (Czech Republic / Survey data report [ or view as size 1200 kb])
Based on the results of a 2006 survey, this report describes the importance of various aspects of working life and corresponding worker satisfaction. The majority of Czechs are satisfied with their job. Pay, fair reward for work performance and job security are considered the most important factors. However, only two out of five workers are satisfied with their pay. Overall, disparities in satisfaction levels emerge between different socioeconomic groups.
16 March 2009: High levels of stress in public administration work (Bulgaria / Information update)
Working in public administration appears to be associated with high levels of stress, according to the findings of a survey carried out in the framework of an EU-funded project for improving human resource management in this sector. The main stress factor reported by over half of the survey respondents was the low level of remuneration. Other work-related stress factors included high workload, too many and diversified tasks, time pressure and low levels of autonomy.
02 March 2009: Women and manual workers have least job satisfaction (Sweden / Information update)
A recently published report examines the trends in the Swedish working environment from an occupational-level and gender perspective. The report is based on a Labour Force Survey and uses a so-called staircase methodology to analyse the results. It shows that blue-collar workers and women experience less job satisfaction than white-collar workers and men. The data also reveal a steady deterioration in working environment quality.
02 March 2009: Survey points to increase in time pressures and job insecurity (Finland / Information update)
The latest quality of work life survey, which was conducted in 2008, outlines the changes that have taken place in working conditions in Finland during the past 30 years. Positive changes have been observed in the possibilities for learning and development at work, as well as an increase in the variety of tasks. Negative developments include a rise in problems related to time pressure, job insecurity and social relationships, particularly in the public sector.
23 February 2009: New research on call centre industry (Malta / Information update)
In 2008, the Employment and Training Corporation commissioned a study focusing on Malta’s growing call centre industry. The study aimed to gain a better insight into the current state of the industry in terms of employment and skills requirements. It also includes a special focus on the industry in the Maltese island of Gozo. The study encompasses a range of findings – including on type of employment contracts, remuneration levels and extent of staff turnover.
04 February 2009: Job quality for foreign workers (Czech Republic / Information update)
A recent study highlights differences in the reasons for hiring foreigners for manual and non-manual jobs in the Czech Republic. While demand for manual foreign workers is driven by a shortage of Czech workers willing to accept the wages offered, demand for non-manual foreign workers is mainly due to a lack of Czech workers with the required qualifications. Thus, diverse strategies are used to attract foreign employees, which impact on their quality of work.
22 December 2008: Working conditions lag behind other EU countries (Hungary / Information update)
A recently published study gives a comparative overview of working conditions in three countries including Hungary. The study is based on the outcomes of the Belgian, Dutch and Hungarian versions of the web-based working conditions survey known as ‘WageIndicator’. This article outlines the findings from Hungary, compiled by the National Confederation of Hungarian Trade Unions, and highlights specificities compared with the other two countries.
10 December 2008: Majority of Czechs enjoy good social relations at work (Czech Republic / Information update)
A survey carried out by the Institute of Sociology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic examined the social atmosphere and relations in the workplace. Some 53% of Czechs described a working atmosphere of good cooperation without the formation of personal relationships, while almost 30% cited a friendly and trusting atmosphere. In contrast, 16% of respondents complained of a cold, impersonal atmosphere or one full of tension and conflict.
27 November 2008: Disparities in job security and satisfaction among Portuguese workers (Portugal / Survey data report [ or view as size 420 kb])
Attitudes to work amongPortuguese workers vary greatly. In general, male workers, workers with a university degree and full-time workers seem to feel more secure in their jobs, to think that they have good opportunities for promotion and to be more satisfied about their jobs than female workers, workers with lower education and part-time workers. The former groups are also more likely to consider their jobs as interesting and useful to society.
06 November 2008: Long working hours but low motivation (Latvia / Information update)
A recent study by the University of Latvia examines certain aspects of employment conditions, such as self-assessment at work and people’s attitudes towards working overtime. The report is based on the Survey on Human Capital in Latvia. Among its findings are that Latvian workers have long working hours and low pay. However, their work is not intensive due to a range of factors, including low motivation and loyalty, fatigue and obsolete technology.
06 November 2008: Self-employed less satisfied than employees about quality of work (Belgium / Information update)
Self-employed people in Flanders have jobs with interesting variation, but also jobs with high intensity causing considerable fatigue. The motivating jobs offer good learning opportunities. However, combining work and family life is not always easy and many self-employed persons complain about psychological exhaustion. These findings come from the first ‘Workability’ monitor of self-employed entrepreneurs, organised by the Flemish Social and Economic Council.
13 October 2008: Municipal employees are postponing retirement (Finland / Information update)
The proportion of municipal employees in Finland who have postponed their exit from work has increased since the pension reform in 2005. Almost a quarter of those who retired on an old-age pension in 2007 had delayed their exit from the labour market, and each year some 3,000 public sector workers at municipal level are still working even after retirement. As the issue of prolonging work careers is a high priority for the government, it is important to take measures to ensure the well-being of workers.
06 October 2008: Increase in employment quality over past five years (Spain / Information update)
A recent study shows that the quality of work in Spain has improved over the period 2001–2006, especially on issues related to gender equality, inclusion and access to the labour market, as well as diversity and non-discrimination. The study also reveals that this improvement is particularly beneficial to those economic sectors and occupational categories that are traditionally more disadvantaged, resulting in a positive convergence process.
24 September 2008: ETUC report gives state of play of the world of work in Europe (EU Level / Information update)
‘Benchmarking working Europe’ is an annual publication by the European Trade Union Confederation and its research institute which aims to deliver an overall picture of the world of work at European level and in the different EU Member States. The report examines a range of topics including employment, youth unemployment, wage developments, social protection, worker participation, corporate social responsibility, corporate governance and social dialogue.
08 September 2008: High job satisfaction but insecurity about pay and retirement (Austria / Survey data report [ or view as size 93 kb])
Based on data obtained from the Austrian Working Climate Survey, this report examines aspects of job satisfaction, revealing generally high levels of satisfaction among the respondents overall. The report also raises the question of whether the existence of a works council makes a difference in this context. At the same time, it assesses people’s feelings of security or insecurity in relation to the future, revealing significant fears concerning employability and income in retirement. Furthermore, the report examines aspects of workload strain, such as time pressure, with women reporting lower levels of work strain than men with regard to all aspects of working conditions.
17 July 2008: Employee-oriented corporate culture boosts companies’ economic success (Germany / Information update)
A recently published study commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs shows that the commitment of employees to their company is positively influenced by an employee-oriented corporate culture. Most companies have already recognised the importance of the link between employee commitment, corporate culture and economic success. However, a great deal of employee potential remains to be exploited by employers.
01 July 2008: New European Job Quality Index to monitor job quality (EU Level / Information update)
In 2008, the European Trade Union Institute for Research, Education and Health and Safety created a European Job Quality Index. The index aims to contribute to the debate about ‘more and better jobs’ in Europe, providing a framework for a more comprehensive assessment of the nature of job quality in Europe. At the same time, the European Job Quality Index is designed to monitor changes in employment over time and allow for a comparison between European countries.
11 June 2008: Report identifies link between performance and health and safety strategy (United Kingdom / Information update)
A recent survey reveals that health and safety is afforded considerable attention by many companies in the United Kingdom, although smaller organisations are less likely to have positive attitudes towards related issues or strategies. This is a significant finding, given that workplace fatalities, injuries and ‘lost days’ due to illness or injury remain high despite the UK’s comparatively good health and safety record within the EU and recent legislative developments.
09 May 2008: Workers rate training provision and good working environment most important (Spain / Information update)
A recent study by the temporary work agency Adecco reveals that Spanish workers regard training, health insurance, financial subsidies for children’s education and pension schemes as the most important provisions offered by their employers. The study also finds that workers consider recognition by their superiors and a good team spirit among colleagues as the most essential aspects for a good working environment.
22 April 2008: Second Quality of Work Survey reveals decline in working conditions (Italy / Survey data report [ or view as size 560 kb])
The preliminary results of the second Quality of Work in Italy Survey, carried out in 2006 by the National Training Agency, show that working conditions have tended to decline since the 2002 survey, although overall job satisfaction is still high. Italian workers seem to be less satisfied with their job autonomy, pay, job security and career opportunities. In general, factors causing gender gaps both at the workplace and in private life persist.
21 April 2008: High-performance work systems can boost working conditions and productivity (Ireland / Information update)
High-performance work systems – comprising strategic human resource management, workplace partnership, and equality and diversity systems – are associated with better working conditions, according to a new Irish study published in 2008. Employee turnover was found to be 7.7% lower as a result of such strategies. Moreover, the research identified that this comprehensive form of work organisation can generate a 14.8% productivity rise and a 12.2% boost to innovation.
07 April 2008: Factors for sustained organisational commitment among temporary employees (Finland / Information update)
According to the ongoing research project by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, entitled ‘Work and health among Finnish hospital personnel’, organisations that employ temporary workers should pay attention to the job control and career prospects of such staff. The results of an internationally published study showed that factors such as being aged over 35 years, high job control, high perceived fairness in decision-making and low psychological strain predicted sustained organisational commitment.
03 April 2008: Lack of fairness and reward for efforts can lead to burnout and poor job satisfaction (Netherlands / Information update)
A research on the influence of justice on work-related outcomes confirms that employees who experience ‘distributive injustice’ are more likely to develop burnout over time, whereas ‘procedural injustice’ leads to lower job satisfaction. The study was carried out over three years comprising more than 1,500 employees. In addition, the study found that female employees experienced higher levels of distributive justice than their male counterparts.
18 March 2008: Work–life balance attitudes and practices in British workplaces, 2007 (United Kingdom / Survey data report [ or view as size 117 kb])
The Third Work–Life Balance Employer Survey for 2007 provides an up-to-date picture of work–life balance practices and attitudes in British workplaces with five or more employees. As the third survey in the series, it offers the opportunity of assessing change over time in relation to work–life balance issues and the impact of new legislation in this area. The research covers a wide range of issues including working hours, provision and take-up of flexible working arrangements, awareness of legislative changes, leave provisions, support for working parents and employers’ attitudes to work–life balance measures.
17 March 2008: Factors determining rate of employee turnover in companies (Lithuania / Information update)
A survey conducted in Lithuania in 2007, at the request of the Lithuanian Labour Exchange, sought to identify factors determining employee turnover in companies. The survey found that pay and working conditions are key factors influencing the rate of staff turnover. Moreover, the survey concluded that employers give a more positive evaluation of working conditions and career opportunities for personnel in their enterprises than do employees.
10 March 2008: Positive work factors can improve health and productivity (Denmark / Information update)
Most research on the work environment has, to date, focused on negative work factors, such as those leading to problems with stress and health. A new report by the National Research Centre for the Working Environment focuses on positive work factors, which can improve employees’ health and productivity. Significant factors include having a high degree of influence in the job, and receiving appreciation and social support, all of which are found to contribute to healthy employees and increased productivity.
04 March 2008: Wide differences among workplaces in quality of working life (Finland / Information update)
The Finnish Working Life Barometer 2007 reveals wide differences in the quality of working life between the best and the poorest working environments. The former are characterised by equal treatment, open relationships between management and staff, and good training opportunities. On average, more opportunities exist for workplace development. Meanwhile, every fourth employee uses new information technology to work away from their main workplace.
25 February 2008: Factors motivating employment in the machine-building industry (Bulgaria / Information update)
A survey carried out in 2007 within the framework of the EU Phare project of the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association aimed to define the factors behind the attractiveness of working in machine-building companies and the recruitment of qualified personnel in the industry. The main findings of the survey reveal significant differences in motivation when it comes to the type of job and age groups. The survey also examined employees’ satisfaction with the work environment.
23 January 2008: Working conditions remain stable in the Netherlands (Netherlands / Survey data report [ or view as size 434 kb])
Despite significant changes in the national questionnaires on work and health, the quality of work as well as health complaints in the Netherlands appear to be relatively stable. Pace of work seems to be on the increase again and more people are working in excess of their contractual hours. Notwithstanding changes in disability legislation, psychological disorders remain a factor in dropping out of employment. Overall, absenteeism has been decreasing recently although work-related illnesses tend to result in longer spells of absence.
21 December 2007: Survey finds that quality of work has improved slightly (Belgium / Information update)
The main results of the second Flemish Workability Monitor were published in September 2007. Although the workability rate in the Flanders region of Belgium has slightly increased between 2004 and 2007, 45.9% of Flemish employees still experience workability problems. Moreover, in relation to the risk factors affecting workability, there has been little variation between the 2004 and 2007 findings.
12 November 2007: Reduction in occupational injuries at the workplace (Spain / Information update)
The Health at Work Observatory recently published its 2006 ‘Occupational health report’, which analyses the current state of safety and health at work issues in Spain. The report identifies a remarkable decline in both fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries in recent years. It also suggests that Spanish workers cite greater exposure to psychosocial and organisational risk factors.
24 September 2007: Quality of working conditions in office work (Germany / Information update)
While office workers enjoy better than average working conditions and express a higher degree of job satisfaction, a recent study on perception of workplace quality by office workers reveals great variations in working conditions among these workers and a strong gender segregation. Only a minority of predominately male full-time workers work in ‘good office jobs’ when wages, benefits, employee support and job demands are taken into consideration.
23 July 2007: Working conditions in corporate consultancy (Austria / Information update)
Corporate consultancy is a high-profile economic sector, with significant growth in employment levels across Europe in recent years. Nevertheless, the sector faces certain problems with regard to working conditions. Research findings indicate that consultancy work is characterised by high workload, increased work pressure, long working hours and considerable demand for mobility.
09 July 2007: Low levels of job commitment among civil servants (Estonia / Information update)
According to a public servants’ work commitment survey, civil servants have a lower level of commitment than private sector employees do. This may be due to the fact that public servants do not feel valued in society, in addition to perceived problems concerning salary levels and fair treatment. The study makes a series of recommendations to raise work commitment levels.
05 July 2007: Quality in work and employment — Spain (Spain / National Contribution)
After decades when high unemployment rates were the main problem of the Spanish labour market, nowadays the debate on quality of work in Spain is dominated by the question of temporary employment and how to reduce the excessive proportion of fixed term contracts. These contracts are generally related to deficient working conditions in all the considered domains. Thus a number of measures are being put in practice as a result of a prolonged process of agreement amongst social partners in order to establish a new balance between flexibility and security in employment. Health and safety at work is another subject high on the agenda, with a severe rate of work accidents, in spite of improvements in prevention systems. Also work-life balance is gaining importance within the quality of work scene.
02 July 2007: Quality of work and employment in Europe (TRANS NATIONAL / Comparative analytical report [ or view as size 739 kb])
The concept of quality of work forms an integral part of the European social model, although the emphasis often leans more towards indicators of quantity than quality in employment. This report examines the EU policy context and assesses quality of work across the Member States in relation to four key aspects: employment security, health and well-being, skills development and work–life balance.
29 June 2007: Quality in work and employment — Cyprus (Cyprus / National Contribution)
Quality of work and employment is back at the top of the European employment and social policy agenda. At the first Informal meeting of Ministers for Employment and Social Affairs held under the German Presidency on 18/20 January 2007 in Berlin, agreement was reached on a set of policy principles covering what the Presidency termed ‘good work’ – a new EU terminology following on from the ILO use of ‘decent work, and the more established EU mantra of ‘more and better jobs’.This is the contribution of Cyprus.
29 June 2007: Quality in work and employment — Denmark (Denmark / National Contribution)
Quality of work and employment is back at the top of the European employment and social policy agenda. At the first Informal meeting of Ministers for Employment and Social Affairs held under the German Presidency on 18/20 January 2007 in Berlin, agreement was reached on a set of policy principles covering what the Presidency termed ‘good work’ – a new EU terminology following on from the ILO use of ‘decent work, and the more established EU mantra of ‘more and better jobs’.This is the contribution of Denmark.
29 June 2007: Quality in work and employment — The Netherlands (Netherlands / National Contribution)
After an economic recession starting 2001, employment in the Netherlands is growing again since 2005. This rise in employment shows some salient aspects of the labour force, and which are caused by the greying and de-greening (reduced inflow of younger workers into the labour market) of the work force. Companies appear to want employees to be relatively young (ideal age between 20 and 35), who have high educations, are (were) not absent due to sickness and are Dutch.
29 June 2007: Quality in work and employment — UK (United Kingdom / National Contribution)
This national fact sheet traverses four key areas of research on quality in work and employment in the UK: career and employment, health and well-being, skills development and work-life balance. It also evaluates a wide range of qualitative and quantitative studies in order to assess the current profile of and significance attributed to the subject of quality of work in both academic and practitioner circles.
31 May 2007: Place of work and working conditions – Belgium (Belgium / National Contribution)
This report gives insights into the quality of work of people, working most of the time at places other than the company’s premises. What is the ‘effect’ of this other place of work on working conditions? This question is for Belgium surveyed by focusing on 4 types of occupation: teleworkers, construction workers, home carers and temporary agency workers. Although place of work is no important issue of policy debate in Belgian, some important, specific problems can be detected: higher safety risk in construction, labour conditions of (foreign) temporary agency workers, isolation and higher risk of client aggression, commuting problems and longer, irregular working hours.
31 May 2007: Employment and working conditions of migrant workers - Netherlands (Netherlands / National Contribution)
Abstract: Based on two (longitudinal) studies and the literature it is concluded that illegal migrant workers in the Netherlands constitute about 1% of the legal workforce, and for a large part consist of workers from Middle and Eastern European countries. Among legal migrant workers two groups can be distinguished. First migrant workers with a non- western background (including traditional groups of migrants, such as Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese and Antillean persons) and second migrants with a western background. Non-western migrants appear to have less beneficial contractual relations, and working conditions compared to non-migrants. They also report more health related problems, and experience more disputes and discrimination at the workplace. Working conditions of western migrants resemble those of non-migrants closely.
14 May 2007: Good employers value their employees highly (Hungary / Information update)
The human resources company Hewitt Associates carried out a survey in 2006 to find the best companies to work for in Hungary. The survey covered 23,858 employees in 123 companies in Hungary. It found that the best employers treat their employees as a valuable resource. The survey also examined employees’ satisfaction with their pay in relation to their performance, in addition to touching on the issue of work–life balance.
27 April 2007: Working conditions in home care work (Belgium / Information update)
The EU-funded research project, ‘Proxima’, provides a valuable insight into the well-being and quality of work of home care workers in Belgium. According to the study, a high proportion of home care workers report low job recognition (33%), lack of social support (64%), back problems (47%) and low remuneration (46%). Strategies to improve the quality of work in the sector relate to areas such as active ageing, risk prevention, balancing the division of work, forms of direct participation in the job and communication channels.
16 April 2007: Increase in work demands and exposure to loud noise (Denmark / Information update)
The results of the Danish Work Environment Cohort Study 2005 (DWECS), published in December 2006, reveal significant increases in demands at work and in exposure to loud noise at the workplace. On the other hand, DWECS also shows significant improvements in employees’ work–life balance and in social support from superiors. Moreover, employees had a more positive outlook on future job prospects in 2005 than in 2000. These conflicting results have caused some debate among the social partners.
16 April 2007: Employees optimistic about future employment prospects (Finland / Information update)
According to the Working Life Barometer 2006, Finnish employees are optimistic about their future employment prospects. The overall employment situation and the economic situation of individual companies are viewed in a more positive light in 2006 than in the previous year. However, the employees’ overall perception of the significance of their work has remained negative since 2000. In particular, relationships between management and workers seem to have deteriorated. Notable differences between the sectors have also remained as employees in the local government sector face particularly difficult working conditions.
12 April 2007: Satisfaction levels high despite stress at work (Luxembourg / Information update)
Most employees appear to be satisfied with their working conditions, with certain variations according to the characteristics of the work and the worker, according to the most recent Living in Luxembourg socioeconomic panel survey. However, one in three workers report that they frequently feel stressed at work.
23 March 2007: More work and less control over pace of work (Sweden / Information update)
The latest Work Environment Survey conducted in 2005 reveals some changes in the psychosocial work environment experienced by employees. These changes include an increasing workload, less control over work pace and a lack of support from managers and work colleagues. Although the negative changes are statistically significant, the overall disimprovement in the work environment is not substantial.
02 October 2006: Long working hours and regular overtime (Latvia / Information update)
A recent study shows that Latvians work long hours; indeed, a significant proportion of employees work overtime on a regular basis. At the same time, more part-time positions have become available and people are taking on multiple jobs. Overall, working conditions are slow to improve. These are some of the conclusions of the study, which set out to assess employment and working conditions in Latvia before and immediately after its accession to the European Union.
25 September 2006: Trends in labour market participation, income and job satisfaction among non-nationals (Estonia / Information update)
A recent study by the Institute of International and Social Studies reveals that, although the labour market status of non-nationals remains low in Estonia, young non-nationals are advancing to higher positions. The study also highlights that the socioeconomic conditions of Estonian-Russians are becoming more equal to those of ethnic Estonians. However, compared to Estonians, Russians are less satisfied with their job, regardless of the type of occupation. Their income is strongly determined by their citizenship.
25 September 2006: Positive effects of works councils on working conditions (Austria / Information update)
Employees in companies with works councils show higher job satisfaction and have higher salaries and greater job stability than staff in companies without works councils. These study findings can be used as a strong argument for the European social model, in which representative employee participation, social partnership and high standards of working conditions play a crucial role.
09 August 2006: Integration of wheelchair users in the workforce (Latvia / Information update)
A recent study by the Baltic Institute of Social Sciences looks at the barriers to integrating wheelchair users in the workforce. Only 20% of disabled wheelchair users in Latvia are employed. The level of employment is even lower among female wheelchair users and non-nationals. While 74.3% of wheelchair users who are currently unemployed would like to have a job, only 41.5% are actively seeking work. The study found that, in addition to objective circumstances, such as mobility problems and environmental accessibility, there are also subjective factors influencing the integration of wheelchair users into the labour market. These include employers’ attitudes towards wheelchair users and the passivity of disabled people themselves or their reluctance to get involved in working life.
11 September 2006: Job satisfaction high despite lack of recognition (Germany / Information update)
Key factors determining quality of work are job and income security, and social, mental and health aspects of work. Despite a high degree of satisfaction, motivation and identification with work, employees complain of a lack of recognition. These are the findings of a 2004 survey in Germany, which explores perspectives on quality in work.
10 August 2006: Measuring job satisfaction in surveys - Comparative analytical report (EU Countries / Topic report [ or view as size 228 kb])
This report provides a comparative overview of how job satisfaction is measured in national working conditions surveys, based on 16 national contributions to a questionnaire (PDF file). It investigates conceptual and methodological issues in the study of job satisfaction. The report then examines survey results on levels of general or overall job satisfaction among workers, as well as identifying the relationship between specific factors relating to work and job satisfaction. The national contributions from the following 16 countries are available (as PDF files): Austria, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Jorge Cabrita and Heloisa Perista (CESIS, Portugal) coordinated the preparation of this comparative analytical report.
29 May 2006: Decent work - Safe work (EU Level / Information update)
Some 2.2 million people worldwide die of work-related accidents and diseases each year, according to data from the International Labour Organisation. The figures indicate a slightly rising trend. Estimates for the EU15 suggest that 120,000 deaths occur each year due to work-related diseases, and 4.4 million accidents lead to three or more days' absence from work.
12 May 2006: Upgrading the textiles, clothing and footwear sector (Romania / Information update)
The Romanian textiles, clothing and footwear sector exports more than 92% of its output to the EU market, according to the findings of a 2005 study. The study examines developments in the sector and analyses its national economic importance. It also assesses a number of ‘decent work’ parameters, such as union density, non-discrimination and working time. Overall, the report recommends that the sector be upgraded as part of a long-term strategy. Measures to achieve this include investing in research and development, and in human resources, focusing more on the domestic market, as well as implementing quality standards.
05 April 2006: Working conditions in Finland (Finland / Survey data report [ or view as size 102 kb])
Considerable differences exist between the working conditions of various sectors in Finland, with employees in the local government sector reporting particularly unfavourable working conditions. According to results from the Working Life Barometer 2005, employees in this sector find their work mentally and physically demanding, and experiences of violence at work are common. Nevertheless, measures to improve the quality of working life and productivity are being implemented in the majority of Finnish workplaces, and at least half of the employees have participated in training paid for by their employer in the past 12 months.
03 January 2006: Quality of work in call centres (Austria / Information update)
The Austrian call centre sector is characterised by atypical work, low income and high staff turnover, and mainly employs female workers. Furthermore, there are key differences between inhouse call centres and subcontracting companies.
14 December 2005: Job commitment in nursing profession (Finland / Information update)
A 2005 study examines the commitment of nursing staff to their current employers and to their profession. The study shows that difficult working conditions correlate with reduced commitment. Young nurses, in particular, are concerned by insecure contracts, and sometimes consider giving up their job. Nonetheless, nurses were found to be strongly committed both to the organisation and to their profession.
30 November 2005: Working conditions in the banking sector (Bulgaria / Information update)
A risk assessment survey among employees in the banking sector found that the main risk factor perceived by the respondents is computer use and its related effects: poor sitting position (reported by 76%, leading to musculoskeletal disorders) and eye problems due to excessive use of screens (reported by 91%).
14 April 2005: High performance workplace practices and job satisfaction (EU Level / Information update)
An analysis of data from the European Working Conditions Survey 2000 shows that high performance work practices impact positively on work satisfaction. Autonomy in the workplace, participation in decision-making, and increased communication with co-workers are key factors for workers’ well-being. However, team work, job rotation and supporting human resource practices have only a limited effect.
23 February 2005: Weaknesses in safety, hygiene and health at work (Portugal / Information update)
According to a working conditions survey of 2,500 Portuguese workers, there are significant weaknesses in safety, hygiene and health measures in the workplace. Among the causes are lack of motivation due to low wages, a disregard for protective equipment, and a low level of worker participation in risk prevention procedures.
18 October 2004: Working conditions in France (France / Survey data report [ or view as size 92 kb])
Research over the past few years shows that working conditions in France have deteriorated. Work organisation has become increasingly complex and restrictive. Work rates and rhythms are faster, work is more repetitive, mental strain and stress are growing. The numbers of occupational accidents and illnesses are also rising. However, since the introduction of the 35-hour working week in 2001, employees have greater scope for taking initiative.
28 June 2004: Annual review of working conditions in the EU: 2003–2004 (EU Level / Annual review [ or view as size 412 kb])
This review examines four key dimensions in working conditions and quality of work and employment: career and employment, health and well-being, skills development and work–life balance. The report first outlines relevant legislative and policy developments, before examining trends in the workplace. In terms of career and employment, employment rates are consistently rising for women and older workers, at least in the EU15, but progress is currently too slow to achieve the Lisbon targets. In the area of health and well-being, improvements regarding safety at work are reflected in the significant decline of serious and fatal accidents at work. Looking at skills development, participation rates in lifelong learning have increased, particularly for women. There was a drop in IT-related training. Under work–life balance, progress has been slow, due to a complexity of factors involved in improving reconciliation of working and non-working life, such as work organisation, working time arrangements, or provision of care facilities.
14 May 2004: Quality of life in the Spanish workplace, 2003 (Spain / Survey data report [ or view as size 86 kb])
The main results of the 2003 survey on quality of life in the workplace suggest that, in general, Spanish workers are satisfied at work. Most of them approve of their safety conditions and feel positive about relations with their colleagues. In addition, stress levels seem to have gone down. However, the gender gap remains particularly acute when it comes to types of contracts, working hours, carrying out house chores, and taking care of children and the elderly.
25 March 2004: Work and health statistics in the Netherlands (Netherlands / Survey data report [ or view as size 153 kb])
A continuous rise in the pace of work of 1.5% per annum took place in the Netherlands over a 20-year period. This levelled off at national level in 1997, though some sectors show further increases. Trends regarding other risks show only minor changes. Over the last decade, work has become somewhat more autonomous, physical conditions have improved, but repetitive movements have increased. Health complaints, and more recently self-reported burnout in the Dutch workforce, have remained constant. In recent decades, however, the number of workers who retire into the disability system has been steadily rising, particularly those suffering from psychological disorders.
15 March 2004: Part-time work in Europe (EU Countries / Topic report [ or view as size 141 kb])
Part-time work has become increasingly commonplace in the European Union. In 2002, around 18% of the total EU working population worked part-time. However, such work is not equally distributed among gender and age groups, nor among countries, sectors or occupations. From a working conditions perspective, the empirical evidence shows that part-time work is associated with several negative working conditions, such as fewer opportunities for training and career progression, weaker job tenure, lower salary levels, and less access to supplementary payments and social protection benefits. Conversely, part-time workers are less likely to report job-related health problems and are more likely to achieve a positive work-life balance.
26 February 2004: Commission signals progress in quality of work (EU Level / Information update)
A Communication from the European Commission highlights recent progress regarding quality of work issues, and assesses the policy implications.
01 December 2003: Quality of work and employment (EU Level / Information update)
The European Commission’s Employment in Europe 2003 report examines the subject of quality of work. In relation to this topic, it identifies relevant indicators and labour market dynamics, such as flexible working arrangements. Overall, it finds that quality of work did not improve significantly across the EU Member States in the period 1996-2000.