Code Of Conduct/Safety

This is a space where everyone is welcome and which inspires creativity and collaboration. Some activities will make you think critically, others will turn your thoughts into action.

We support a maker culture where:

• everyone shares responsibility for safety.
• we help one another and are receptive to feedback.
• we support one another.
• innovation is encouraged.
• positive experiences are created. 

This is a space to have FUN, LEARN, be PRODUCTIVE, and work SAFELY.

Please adhere to posted safety and equipment guidelines, report damaged or unclean equipment, and ask questions.

Report all Injuries/Incidents

• Immediately report ALL accidents, injuries, or incidents to a Makerspace Technician.
• Immediately discontinue use of the tool(s) or equipment if it becomes unsafe, damaged, or is not working properly; notify a Makerspace Technician.

Safe Conduct Agreement

• Use the space and equipment safely and leave the space and equipment in clean and working condition.
• Work and behave in a way that protects your own safety and the safety of others.
• Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
• Ask for help when you are uncertain how to use equipment.
• Operation of the 3D Printers and Laser Machine is restricted to Makerspace Technicians.
• Abide by FCFI and government building, safety, and fire regulations and comply with the rules and regulations of the equipment, whether posted or otherwise imposed by FCFI.

Prepare

• Safety is your top priority when using the Makerspace. If you are not sure what to do, ask.
• Be aware of locations of first aid, fire, and safety equipment.
• Never use a tool unless you’ve been trained to use it safely.
• Use a step stool to reach extension cords or tools which are out of reach. Do not climb on tables or chairs to reach for something.
• Do not work when tired or in a hurry. 
• Do not cause a distraction, fool around, or startle anyone while either one of you is using a tool.
• Think through the entire job before starting. Prepare prints or drawings with all dimensions and specifications prior to submitting your job to a Makerspace Technician. Makerspace Technicians are happy to assist you if you get stuck.

Use Protective Gear & Dress Right

• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing around moving or rotating machinery.
• Remove ties, jewelry, lanyards, etc., especially around moving or rotating machinery.
• Tie back long hair.
• Wear suitable gloves when handling hot objects or sharp-edged items.

Use Tools Correctly

• Use tools how they are designed to be used.
• Never use a broken tool. Report any broken tools or machinery to a Makerspace Technician immediately.
• Do not remove tools from the Makerspace.
• Never walk away from a tool that is still on. 
• Never tamper with a tool’s safety features. Operate machinery according to recommended procedures and with safety guards in place, as applicable. 

Food and Drinks 

• Covered beverages are allowed in the green and yellow zones. Unattended beverages may be discarded by staff. Clean up any spills immediately.
• Food is only permitted in the kitchen/break room.

Clean Up

• Clean up after yourself; leave the area clean and tidy.
• Clean and return all tools to where you got them.
• Shut off and unplug machines when cleaning. 
• Never use a rag near moving machinery. 
• Use a brush, hook, or a special tool to remove chips, shavings, etc., from the work area. Never use your hands. 
• Keep fingers clear of the point of operation of machines by using special tools or devices, such as push sticks, hooks, pliers, etc. 
• Keep the floor around machinery clean, dry, and free from trip hazards. 
• Clean up spills immediately and put a chair or cone over them if they are wet enough to cause someone to slip.

The FCFI Makerspace has a variety of low-tech and high-tech tools and equipment. 

• Tools, equipment, and areas of the Makerspace marked with a green dot or tape do not require any specialized training or orientation.  
• Tools, equipment, and areas of the Makerspace marked with a yellow dot or tape require you to sign a Makerspace User Agreement and to complete a mandatory equipment usage and safety orientation. 
• Tools, equipment, and areas of the Makerspace marked with a red dot or tape require you to sign a Makerspace User Agreement and to complete a mandatory equipment usage and safety orientation. Operation of these tools and equipment is restricted to the Makerspace Technicians.  

The tools and equipment available in the Makerspace fall into one of these categories: 

1. 3D Printers
2. Laser Machine
3. Sewing Machines
4. Soldering Equipment
5. Electronics: Arduino, Raspberry Pi, LittleBits,, and Lego Kits. 
6. Arts and Crafts: Vinyl Plotter, Cricut, and miscellaneous craft materials and supplies. 
7. CNC Router Safety 101: This class is only available by appointment.
8. Wood Shop Safety 101: This class is only available by appointment.
9. Wood Lathe Safety 101: This class is only available by appointment.

For classes that are only available by appointment please contact a Makerspace Technician.