## 6 Conclusions and Future Directions  
This work presents a storytelling-based cross-sectional study involving 344 Italian manufacturing companies to assess the level of perception and implementation of RE principles and practices. In response to RQ1, it shows that the dimensions of Monitor and Respond are perceived as more important compared to Anticipate and Learn, reflecting a more reactive rather than proactive approach in terms of OSH. This predominance is also confirmed in addressing RQ2. Additionally, the study shows, in response to RQ3, the presence of significant differences. Small companies, in fact, attribute more importance to certain aspects of the Monitor and Anticipate dimensions when dealing with accidents. On the other hand, medium-large companies attribute more importance to other aspects of the Anticipate and Learn dimensions, both when dealing with accidents and near misses. These differences are closely linked to the unique challenges and capacities of companies based on their size. Small enterprises often face resource constraints that limit their ability to implement complex monitoring systems or provide extensive training programs. For such organizations, practical strategies might include the adoption of cost-effective environmental monitoring tools or simplified risk assessment methods. In contrast, larger companies are better positioned to invest in advanced technologies, such as real-time monitoring systems, automated safety protocols, and comprehensive training initiatives. Policymakers can play a key role in supporting smaller firms, for instance, through financial incentives like the ISI grants provided by INAIL [67], which facilitate the adoption of essential safety measures. Technological innovation, examined in RQ4, also emerges as a critical factor. In terms of perceived importance, companies that have implemented new technology assign greater importance to the Learn dimension in the case of accidents. Furthermore, in terms of implementation level, actions and systems related to the Respond, Anticipate, and Learn dimensions are more enhanced in companies that have introduced technological innovation. Future research could build on these findings in several important directions. One crucial direction involves adopting a longitudinal approach to monitor how safety practices and technology use evolve. Given that OSH is a dynamic process, studying long-term effects, especially after incidents, could reveal the sustainability and impact of safety interventions. Expanding the scope to include international comparisons could shed light on how regulatory frameworks, cultural values, and technological contexts shape safety behavior. Additionally, the further exploration of the cultural and behavioral aspects of safety in organizations could prove insightful. Specifically, examining the role of leadership, organizational culture, and daily safety practices could offer a more comprehensive understanding of how company values shape safety measures and responses to accidents or near-miss scenarios. Furthermore, comparing safety practices across different sectors could highlight industry-specific needs and offer tailored approaches to risk management. Emerging technologies also present a promising avenue for future study. Studying the role of AI, augmented reality, and real-time monitoring in improving OSH could help assess their effectiveness in preventing incidents and managing risk. These directions would provide a more holistic view of OSH management and technological adoption, paving the way for more effective strategies that enhance worker OSH across diverse contexts and industries. In conclusion, the study's findings underscore the importance of company size and technological adoption in shaping OSH practices, suggesting that this aspect still represents a limitation for OSH, as all organizations, regardless of size, should consider investing in innovative safety solutions.