The start of a new school year brings much excitement, as teachers gear up to teach new lesson plans and students prepare to expand their knowledge in a number of different subjects. But as these children head back to school, it’s important for workers in the waste and recycling industry, as well as other industries, to take necessary precautions to keep students and themselves safe.

“We understand that safety is beyond the cab of our truck and that we need to look out for the littlest in our midst, especially at the start of school when the excitement of getting on the school bus could inadvertently create an unsafe environment,” says Kirk Sander, vice president of safety and standards at the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA).

From staying alert and driving cautiously to being aware of youngsters distracted by mobile technologies, NWRA has put together a list of seven safety tips for staying safe during the school year. Flip through this gallery to view the tips.