Fourth European Working Conditions Survey

Work occupies a central position in the day-to-day lives of most Europeans. Working conditions such as working time, job content, pace of work, pay levels and health and safety have a huge influence on individual well-being and satisfaction. EU policymakers recognise that improving working conditions is crucial to achieving a better quality of work, greater productivity and increased employment – the Lisbon objectives. In this context, the Foundation’s European Working Conditions Surveys, conducted every five years, have been providing a valuable insight into key aspects of work since 1990. This report analyses the findings of the fourth European Working Conditions Survey, carried out in autumn 2005 across 31 countries, including the 27 EU Member States. Based on workers’ responses, it paints a broad and varied picture of the physical, intellectual and psychological dimensions of work and its impact on personal fulfilment and work-life balance.