Rules and Code of Conduct

(((Draft status only)))

(Objective here is to strike a balance between expediency, strictness, fairness, and bureaucracy.)

Rules

Rule Zero - Thou shalt not be aflame

A maker may not be on fire, cause a fellow maker to be on fire, or through inaction allow a fellow maker to be on fire.

Not just applicable to fire, this covers all forms of safety issues. We provide a range of PPE and it should be used when appropriate.

Some examples;

• If using a Dremel cutting/grinding disc, you should wear glasses as they can shatter at great speeds with no warning.
• When plugging your newly built BFG9000 into the mains for the first time, please ask someone to look over the circuit first, and use an RCD.
• If you see someone using equipment incorrectly or unsafely, advise them carefully, and ideally before an incident occurs.

Safety

• Comply with the Tool Usage Policy. If you do not know how to use an unregulated tool you must ask for the assistance of someone who does.

Whilst not restricted, correct use of a chisel or soldering iron will save both you and the tool from injury - some of these tools are surprisingly expensive. There will usually be someone willing to teach you.

• Members must not operate hazardous equipment while their judgement or reaction times are impaired.

Whether due to alcohol, drugs, or any other condition.

• Report any issues with health and safety or emergency equipment to the keyholder ASAP.

Raise any serious concerns to the Committee directly.

Premises

Do not bother the Sheep.

It is a baaaad idea and ewe should not do it.

If something is broken, fix it. If dirty, clean it. If misplaced, tidy it.

If you can't, then report it.

If doing something nontrivial to the space itself then ask a committee member first.

This includes making more holes in the walls!

Tidy Up.

Clear up after yourself; put projects away, return tools to the correct locations, clear up piles of sawdust, wash up. Help with the general tidying (eg the bins, hoovering, cleaning the Workshop etc. is greatly appreciated.

Legalities

Compliance with UK law is assumed at all times.

Drugs, illegal weapons manufacture etc will not be tolerated.

Children and other small animals are welcome in the Space, as long as their owner clears up afterwards.

Under 16s may not enter the space without a responsible adult. Said responsible adult assumes all responsibility for the actions and safety of said minor.

Materials & Finance

Equipment should be treated with care and respect.

If a tool is damaged while you're using it, you must tell the keyholder. If you damage a tool due to misuse the Commitee may ask you to contribute time or money towards its replacement or repair - especially if the cause was avoidable and covered by training or on the Wiki.

Pay for consumables used

Including laser materials, printer filament, and tuck.

General supplies are usable by all members, within reason.

If you use something try to replace it or donate similar to the stockpiles, or chuck some money in a donation bucket. If the very last of a consumable is used, add it to the Replenishment_requests.

All waste must be disposed of correctly.

Check material safety datasheets if you are unsure (eg. do not just pour acetone down the drain).

This includes using the correct bins for recycling and general waste.

Break this rule on Pain of Steve. A&E have ceased to see the funny side of extracting teabags from various orifices.

Keep your membership up to date.

Rent doesn't pay itself.

Possessions

Members are allowed to store personal items in the space, but they must be kept in your labelled box.

Empty boxes may be recycled for other members if needed. Sometimes more items (or larger items) may be allowed, but please note that space is limited.

When donating items, consider carefully its true usefuless.

Disposal requires effort and space is limited. Seek permission for large items.

Don't remove anything from the Space which you didn't bring or make yourself.

Other than rubbish!

Items left on desk surfaces may be moved or disposed of.

Desk space is at a premium - be aware of this.'

Code Of Conduct

Members are expected to remain polite and respectful to other members and to all visitors and guests. Lively debate and discussion is encouraged and disagreements are inevitable but should be conducted with respect and a positive attitude.

Everyone that works on maintenance and infrastructure at the makerspace is a volunteer and is giving up their valuable time to make the space work for everyone. Please help where you can by putting equipment away, keeping the space tidy, washing up etc. Even if you didn’t make the mess there is nothing stopping you from clearing it up.

We regularly get guests and visitors at the makerspace and it can be a bit daunting for them if it’s their first time. All members can help them by being open and friendly if approached or perhaps approach them if they seem to be left out of things. They’ll be fine once they get to know us but some people need help getting over any initial awkwardness.

This is your makerspace, if you think something needs doing or is missing then please get in touch with a committee member. If you’re able to help out or perhaps take the lead on something then get in touch.

Above all, enjoy the space and the group. Make stuff, learn, teach, help out.