Perceived mental workload and job performance in security guards

The main objective of this study was to examine the relationships between job performance and subjective mental workload in a sample of 368 security guards. Mental workload was assessed using the "Cognitive Demands" dimension of the DECORE Multidimensional Questionnaire. Job performance was assessed by workers direct supervisors. Results show that guards global performance level was mainly determined by "work attitude" and "response to emergencies". No significant associations were found between job performance and subjective mental workload. Results only indicate that participants tended to perceive slightly more cognitive demands as job performance levels increased. These results are compared with previous investigations focused on the study of dissociations between mental workload measures. New research paths are recommended, including more complex tasks and situations (emergencies, addition of secondary tasks, etc.).