Safety first sign

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While patrons are using our makerspace, they must take responsibility of safely operating the tools and equipment. Each tool and machine present its own risks so, you must be constantly aware of how others are using it. Before using any of tool or machine, it is important to understand the safety concerns.

Before you begin helping someone use a tool or machine ask yourself:

Is this the right tool or machine for the job?
- Tools are designed to perform specific task, and should be used correctly to prevent injury. For example, you should not use an X-acto blade as a pry bar, can opener, chisel or screw driver. Not sure if it's the right tool? Ask!
Is the tool or machine damaged?
- Look for loose handles, rust, cracks, unwanted warped or sharp edges or splintering. Let a staff member know if something is damaged.
How will my work affect those around me?
- Be aware of how much space you are taking and how you are using your tools. We want to make sure we are not cluttering our materials and causing tripping hazards, or even using a tool in a manner that could harm another person that is close by.

Here are our Makerspace safety guidelines:

Laser Cutter

Laser hazard sign Fire hazard sign

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Laser cutters present a risk of fires, generating fumes or damage to eyes and skin. Locate a staff member for how to safely operate the laser cutter. The safety measures are also in the Epilog Manual and the Dremel Manual.
Materials will need to be approved ahead of time, before you use the cutter. Some materials do not work (i.e. metals) and some are extremely hazardous to either humans or the machine itself (i.e. PVC and vinyl). View the materials on the pre-approved list. You can also explore the Safety Data Sheets provided by manufacturing and supply companies. These sheets provide health and safety information about chemicals, materials and substances. You can also find more information about a product on company websites, like Home Depot, that provide material specifications.
Fumes coming from the laser cutter can be harmful to people and the equipment without proper ventilation. Before starting any job, ensure that the air compressor and air filter are turned on and running.
Keep the lid shut while the laser in running.
Fires and smoking can still happen during safe operation of the laser cutter. In the event of a fire, open the laser cutter lid and turn the machine off. If the fire is growing, locate the nearest fire extinguisher and use it to extinguish the fire.
Always stay near and watch the cutter while the laser is running.
Immediately discontinue the use of the laser cutter if it becomes unsafe or damaged and notify a staff member.

Before every job, make sure to check that the air filter and air compressor are turned on, and that the lid is shut.

Vinyl Cutter

Hand cut hazard sign

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Vinyl cutters presents a risk in cutting hands and entangling loose clothes, hair or jewelry. Locate a staff member for how to safely use the vinyl cutter. The safety measures are also in the 48" US Cutter SC Manual and the 24" US Cutter MH Manual.
Make any adjustments to the machine and material before you run a job.
Always keep all body parts and objects away from the machine while cutting is occurring.
Use the vinyl cutter as intended, and do not place any objects on the vinyl cutter that will prevent it from being safely used. (Hang a jacket, etc.)
Always stay near and watch the cutter while it is active.
Immediately discontinue the use of the vinyl cutter if it becomes unsafe or damaged and notify a staff member.

Vacuum Former

Hot hazard sign

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The vacuum former presents a risk in burning a hand. Locate a staff member for how to safely use the heat press. The safety measures are also in the Formech Manual.
The machine will heat up to a couple hundred degrees Fahrenheit, so always keep body parts and objects away from the machine while in use.
The once the plastic has been formed onto the form, it will be warm to the touch. Let it sit for a minute before you take the object and plastic sheet off the bed.
Do not place or hang anything on top of the heating element of the machine.
Immediately discontinue the use if it becomes unsafe or damaged, and notify a staff member.

CNC and Routing

Puncture hazardsign

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The CNC and hand router present a risk in puncturing hands. Locate a staff member for how to safely use the router. The safety measures are also in the ShopBot CNC manual and the Shaper Origin manual.
The CNC and hand router do have safety mechanisms in place to keep your hands clear from the bit. There is a designated spot for both hands to be as well as a clear shield that is placed over the bit location.
Secure your hair, jewelry and loose clothing. There is the potential for dangling objects to get stuck on the moving bit.
Immediately discontinue the use if it becomes unsafe or damaged, and notify a staff member.

Sewing and Embroidery Machines

Puncture hazard sign

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Sewing machines present a risk in puncturing hands. For how to safely operate a sewing machine, watch the UW Community Center video tutorial. The safety measures are also in the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 manual, the Brothers cs6000i manual, the Janome serger and the Janome embroidery mb-7 manual.
Before you use any of the machines, inspect it to ensure that it is working properly and that the needle is not dull or broken. If something is not working, notify a staff member to assist.
Be mindful of where you place your foot pedal and your hands as you sew. The needle is sharp and can pierce your hand if you are not careful.
Immediately discontinue the use of the sewing, serger or embroidery machine if it becomes unsafe, damaged, or broken and notify a staff member.

Tools

Puncture hazardsign cut Hand hazard sign Crush hazard sign

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Use each tool as intended, and do not use the tool in a fashion that will prevent it from being safely used. Locate a staff member for how to safely use the hand tools.
- Bladed tools present a risk of cutting, slicing, snipping and stabbing.
- Drills present a risk of cutting, puncturing and entangling loose clothes, hair or jewelry.
- Hammers present a risk of smashing or cutting.
- To learn how to use these tools, watch the Tech Interactive tutorial videos.
Always use a stable surface when using the tools. We have clamps available to keep items in place.
Be mindful of where your limbs are when you are using the tools, especially your hands.
Immediately discontinue the use of the tool if it becomes unsafe or damaged and notify a staff member.

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