We ask you to remember these four key principles when using the Makerspace and approaching any piece of equipment.

• Check the environment for potential hazards.
• Check the equipment for potential hazards.
• Check yourself for potential hazards.
• Check with staff if you are unsure.

Here are some specific safety requirements:

• Enclosed shoes must be worn at all times when in the Makerspace.
• Make sure to read the safety signage before using any equipment.
• Use the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever using any of the tools.
• Before using any equipment make sure to tie back loose hair, clothing or jewellery.
• Check the area for any potential hazards and make sure it is clean and clear.
• Do not use any equipment that is visibly damaged and immediately inform staff.
• Only use tools and equipment from the Makerspace.
• Any personal repair projects should be cleared with the facilitator on site. We are not setup to work with mains electrical equipment.
• If you are unsure of anything, check with a member of staff.

• After checking the area is clear and the equipment is in good working order and obstruction free, turn on the extraction fan next to the printer to remove any fumes.
• Do not touch the print bed as it can reach over 40+ degrees
• Do not touch the nozzle as it can reach over 200+ degrees. If waste needs to be removed from the nozzle, please clean with a brass brush, pliers or tweezers.
• Ensure the door is closed on the printer at all times to prevent anything getting caught in the moving parts, to contain fumes and to maintain temperature, but leave a gap of about one hand width between the zips to allow air to flow into the enclosure.
• Do not put your fingers under the wheels or the print bed as it moves during printing.
• Allow the print bed and extruder to cool before removing the print.
• When removing your print job only use plastic scrapers. Ensure your hands are placed behind the scraper at all times.
• Gently try and lift the build surface from the plate. Do not apply too much force.
• If unable to remove the print, please speak to a staff member.
• Ensure the equipment is turned off when you have finished.
• Remember, if you are unsure of anything, check with a member of staff.

• After checking the area is clear and the equipment is in good working order, turn on the smoke absorber.
  
• Do not touch the hot end of the tool you're working with.
• Make sure to use a ceramic tile as the work area must be heat resistant.
• Ensure your work is secured with a clamp to prevent it moving.
• Before using any equipment make sure to tie back loose hair, clothing or jewellery.
• Use pliers or other tools to move and hold hot metal objects.
• Ensure safety glasses are worn.
• Ensure cables are kept away from the tool’s hot end and do not touch molten plastic or solder.
• When you have finished turn the equipment off. Leave the smoke absorber on whilst the equipment cools down for 15 minutes.
• After equipment has cooled down pack everything away safely.
• Remember, if you are unsure of anything, check with a member of staff.

• Check the area is clear and the equipment is in good working order. Report any problems to staff.
• Wear appropriate PPE.
• Ensure the work surface is even.
• Remember, if you are unsure of anything, check with a member of staff.

Blades and cutters

• Before cutting make sure you are using a cutting mat and/or appropriate surface.
  
• Secure the item to be cut with rulers, jigs or clamps before cutting.
• Check the blade isn’t loose, chipped or dull.
• Always cut away from yourself and keep your hands clear.

Pliers and clamps

• Keep hands clear of tool faces or clamp areas when securing your job.
• Do not apply too much force.

Hammers and mallets

• Ensure there are no people nearby and there is enough clearance before using the hammer or mallet.
• Always use a wooden work surface under the object you are striking.