The Impact of Workload-related Factors on the Effort-Reward Imbalance in Various Working Groups at a Gas refinery Complex

Background: Workload is defined as the amount of work assigned to employees. The imbalance of efforts and rewards may cause occupational stress. The present study aimed to assess the impact of workload-related factors on the effort-reward imbalance in various working groups at a gas refinery complex. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 274 employees in five working groups in 2018. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, NASA TLX, need for recovery scale, and effort-reward imbalance (ERI) questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 22. Results: In total, 97 participants (34.3%) had the ERI score of more than one, and the imbalance was higher in the service workers. The ERI score was significantly correlated with the mental workload in the staff (P = 0.034) and engineering personnel (P = 0.045). A significant association was observed between the need for recovery and ERI score in the staff, engineering personnel, and middle managers (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The ERI score reduced with the reduction of workload-related factors through improving the workplace conditions, hiring sufficient employees, and proper rewards. Therefore, special attention must be paid to the needs of various working groups in order to enhance their working conditions.