[Construction and validation of TQWL-42: a quality of work life measurement instrument].

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to build an instrument that evaluates quality of working life (QW:) in a comprehensive way that is in line with the WHOQOL instruments and is based on QWL's classic theoretical models, directed toward contemporary Brazilian society. METHODS The content validation was performed through analysis by researchers in the area of QWL, and the verification of internal consistency was performed with Cronbach's alpha. The instrument was administered to 143 individuals. RESULTS The final version of the instrument consists of 47 questions, with five for sampling knowledge and the remaining 42 divided into five spheres that take into account the dimensions of QWL.. Cronbach's alpha obtained from the administration of the instrument was 0.8568. A SPSS syntax and a tool in Microsoft Excel that performs the automated calculation after data tabulation was developed to calculate the results. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the goal of validating a comprehensive instrument with satisfactory psychometrical characteristics for the evaluation of QWL based on contemporary Brazilian culture was reached. This tool may be used without a need for SPSS utilization.