From sensors to decisions: a scoping review of EMG and ECG applications in intralogistics research

The transition toward Industry 5.0 emphasises human-centric intralogistics systems that balance technological innovation with worker well-being. To this end, wearable sensors provide new opportunities for capturing physiological data. This review investigates the use of electromyography (EMG) and electrocardiography (ECG) sensors in studying workers to collect data that enable informed decisions related to operations design, Industry 4.0 technology selection, and assessment of human–technology interactions in real-world intralogistics settings. We identified 211 relevant studies on EMG and ECG in intralogistics systems; 92% were conducted in laboratory environments rather than in the field. EMG applications dominated the literature (208/211), whereas ECG usage was limited (13/211). We distinguish between the intended effects of sensor use, such as ergonomic assessment, and unintended effects, including physical discomfort, psychosocial stress, and challenges related to worker heterogeneity. Building on these findings, we developed a conceptual framework describing how physiological data can shape intralogistics systems. Our results show that wearable sensors affect the system performance both through the generated data and behavioural responses when these data are embedded in management processes. Although centred on the research on EMG and ECG in intralogistics, this framework can be applied to other industrial contexts and wearable sensing technologies.