Work

Environmental workplace conditions, occupational safety, social areas, and gender: Key drivers of job satisfaction in Europe

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of workplace conditions on job satisfaction, focusing on environmental, occupational safety, and social factors, paying particular attention to gender interactions. Drawing on the European Survey on Workplace Health, Wellbeing, and Quality of Work Life, data from 514 employees in local companies and public organizations across six Southern European countries were analysed using discrete choice regression models. The empirical findings identify ventilation, ergonomics, social spaces, and safety training as the strongest positive drivers of job satisfaction, while repetitive work negatively affects it. The results show that women, highly educated employees, and those with permanent contracts report higher job satisfaction, with female workers benefiting most from ergonomic improvements and safety equipment. Managers should therefore prioritize improvements in workplace conditions – particularly ventilation, ergonomics, safety training, and job stability – while integrating gender-sensitive approaches to strengthen both employees’ well-being and organisational performance.

Source: Journal of Management & Organization

DOI: 10.1017/jmo.2025.10067

Authors: Dina Pereira, João Leitão, Sandra Soares

Institutions: University of Lisbon, Universidade Politécnica de Castelo Branco, University of Beira Interior, Instituto de Ciências Sociais da Universidade de Lisboa, LIP - Laboratory of Instrumentation and Experimental Particle Physics

Language: English

Topic: Job Satisfaction and Organizational Behavior

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Gender equality, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550