Work intensity can be regarded as a demand that refers to the quantity, the quality and the speed of the work to be done. Quantitative demands describe the volume, speed and time in which a specific task has to be carried out. Qualitative demands comprise the complexity, difficulty and quality of the work.

Individual performance prerequisites and corporate characteristics such as working conditions or corporate culture play an important role in the emergence and manifestation of work intensity.

Current state of knowledge

A scoping review by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health summarises the state of scientific knowledge on work intensity and observes its interrelationships with (mental) health and well-being. It also describes its relations to motivation, job satisfaction and performance. The work focuses on quantitative and qualitative demands as facets of work intensity. Conceptual and methodological considerations are also a part of the review. In addition, the authors reveal research gaps and discuss options for designing this factor.

The project "Mental Health in the Working World"

The scoping review on work intensity is part of the project "Mental Health in the Working World - determining the current state of scientific evidence". The project assesses mental load factors based on the state of scientific knowledge.

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