Inclusive Human-Centric Manufacturing – reviewing vulnerable workers’ demands

Abstract Labor shortages and skill gaps represent risks to economic growth, while at the same time many people remain outside the workforce due to factors such as age or disability. Vulnerable groups, e.g. people with disabilities, elderly workers, and younger workers, may however, have specific workplace demands. Thus, the aim of this study is to give guidance to developers towards creating more inclusive manufacturing systems. This study guides developers toward inclusive manufacturing systems via a structured literature review identifying demands across physical, cognitive, and sensory capabilities, plus accommodation, access, skills, and motivation needs. Findings distinguish demands enabling task performance from those ensuring retention, proposing a strategic roadmap that shifts from assistive technologies to holistic system design for equitable, safe, and efficient workplaces.