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CRB Makerspace Policies

Follow the Rules

All users of the CRB Makerspace (Room A277) must review these rules, formally agree to them, and follow them at all times in the space.

Important

Safety is the number one priority when using the Makerspace. Do not use equipment you are not authorized to use. If you need a refresher on anything, just ask. If something feels unsafe or you see someone else acting unsafely, say something immediately.

Failure to Follow Policies

Violation of these rules may result in loss of Makerspace privileges and/or access.

General

  • Always follow these policies, posted notices, and staff instructions.
  • Do not use tools in the Makerspace alone. There must be someone in the lab who can see you AND has access to the makerspace.
  • Use the right tool for the job. If you are unsure of anything or need refreshing on procedure, just ask! Raphael is the most expensive and useful tool in the shop. Ask questions often.
  • Report broken or malfunctioning equipment immediately. Do not attempt repairs yourself.
  • Leave the Makerspace cleaner and better than when you entered. No one should know what type of tools and materials you used because your workspace should be completely clean when you leave. Put away tools when done, clean up all chips/debris, and spend an additional few minutes of your time contributing to improving the state of the shared space.
  • Do not remove tools from the space without approval and a documented equipment checkout. It is generally preferred that you work in the Makerspace when using Makerspace equipment, but if you need to borrow a tool, please ask management and fill out the checkout form — even if you only plan to use it for a few minutes. It helps us track where tools are and what tools are most popular. There is a QR code by the door that links to the checkout form.
  • Do not remove complete stocks of consumable components (e.g. rolls of tape, bottles of glue, screw containers, etc.) from the space without checking them out. Taking stocked components for a project is fine, but if you take a large quantity (like a full roll of something), please check it out and return it when you are done. If you use the last of something, share with management so supplies can be replenished.
  • No food or drink in the Makerspace.
  • Do not store project materials in the Makerspace for extended periods without explicit permission. If you leave something in the Makerspace, please label it with your name, phone number, and the time you expect to be back.

I have read and agree to the general rules.

Access

  • The Makerspace is only open to authorized individuals. Do not allow unauthorized personnel into the makerspace unless management invites them in.
  • You must complete training and agree to these policies to be authorized for access.

I have read and agree to the rules around access.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses must be worn when using tools. This includes any time you are cutting, sanding, drilling, or soldering. Safety glasses are available in a bin by the door before entering.
  • Safety glasses must be worn any time management requires it.
  • Masks are available for dust/particle-generating activities. Use local fume extraction when soldering or cutting materials that generate fumes.
  • Use hearing protection as posted or directed.
  • Gloves are available when using hand tools. Do not wear gloves near rotating machine tools. A glove can catch on a spinning bit, blade, or chuck and pull your hand into the machine far faster than you can react.

I have read and agree to the rules around personal protective equipment.

Hand and Power Tools

  • Hand and power tools can cause damage or injury. Make sure you know how to use the tool properly before use.
  • All drilling or cutting must be done on fixed parts. Do not drill or cut without properly securing the workpiece in a vise or appropriate fixture.
  • Return all tools to their designated locations after use. Drill bits must be returned to their indexed storage positions.

I have read and agree to the rules around hand and power tools.

Machine Tools

  • Formal training is required to operate the drill press, vertical bandsaw, horizontal bandsaw, mill, lathe, and rotary tools (e.g., Dremel).
  • Do not machine steel on the Makerspace machines. Instead, use the equipment in the Segal Prototyping and Fabrication Lab. If you need to cut a steel shaft, you may use a vise and hack saw to cut it by hand.
  • The drill press, bandsaws, mini‑mill, and mini‑lathe require permission from management and a key to operate. Check out the key from Raphael or authorized personnel before use and return it immediately after.
  • When using any machine tools:
    • Securely fix parts before machining.
    • Tie back long hair to prevent entanglement.
    • Remove jewelry, neckties, and garments with drawstrings or other loose features when near moving machinery.
    • Do not wear gloves near rotating machinery.
    • Operate machine tools with safety guards in place.
    • No headphones, earbuds, or similar devices when operating machine tools.
    • Vacuum chips/dust and clean the machine and surrounding area after use.

I have read and agree to the rules around machine tools.

Electronics Workstations

  • Be cautious when working around live circuits. Probing and measuring is fine, but power down and unplug before modifying components or connections.
  • Use fume extractors when soldering. The flux vapors in solder fumes can cause respiratory irritation.
  • Keep benches clean and organized. Always clean up the space and put away tools when done.
    • Power down soldering irons and store tools when finished.
    • Dispose of wire trimmings.
    • Return equipment, cables, probes, and accessories to the racks/bins after use.
    • Respool solder and wire.
  • Do not use soldering tweezers for prying, applying force, removing 3D print supports, or other tasks that stress the tips. Soldering tweezers are reserved for handling small components, wires, and SMD parts at the soldering station.

I have read and agree to the rules around electronics workstations.

3D Printing

  • The printer must be reserved for every print job. This can be done online or using the QR code on each machine.
  • The Makerspace printers are for research and educational purposes only. No trinkets. (Personal projects can be completed at the Corner Makery.)
  • Most printing is done in PLA. Ask management if specialized materials are needed. Filament changes should only be completed by authorized individuals.
  • Long or large prints (4+ hours) should be coordinated with management.
  • When your print is done, promptly remove parts, clean the build surface, and leave the printer ready for the next user.

I have read and agree to the rules around 3D printing.

CNC Machining

  • Training is mandatory before using the Carvera CNC machine. Only users who have completed the designated CNC training and received approval from Raphael may operate the machine.
  • Verify tool positions, toolpaths, zeroing, spindle speed, feed rate, and workholding before starting.
  • Keep the enclosure door closed during operation; monitor the job at all times.
  • Vacuum chips and clean the machine and work area after use.

I have read and agree to the rules around CNC machining.

Laser Cutting

  • The laser cutter may only be used after completing the laser cutting orientation.
  • Only cut acrylic on this machine. If you do not know what the material is, ask management.
    • Prohibited materials include (but are not limited to): PVC/vinyl, ABS, polycarbonate/PC, foams, and any unknown material.
  • Monitor the machine at all times while cutting is in progress. Never leave the machine operating unattended.
  • Use scrap acrylic when possible before ordering a new sheet.
  • If you see flames or excessive smoke: pause immediately, open the lid only when safe, and follow fire safety procedures.

I have read and agree to the rules around laser cutting.

Injuries and Emergencies

  • In case of an emergency, call 911.
  • The room has a single exit, first aid kit (by the door), fire extinguisher (by the door), eye wash station (by the sink), and ventilation.
  • If there are toxic or strange fumes or odors, notify management immediately and evacuate if directed.
  • ANY injuries in the CRB Makerspace MUST be reported to Raphael. (ANY severity!)

I have read and agree to the rules around injuries and emergencies.

Accept Policies

You must submit the following form and complete training with Raphael in order to gain access to the Makerspace.

Help

Check all boxes to reveal the acknowledgement form.