Safety Manual

Bryn Mawr College Makerspace Safety Manual

Guidelines and Policies

Rules While Working

Dress Code
  • Close-toed shoes must be worn while in the space. 
  • Long pants are highly recommended since they will protect you from debris.
  • Jewelry, especially rings, bracelets, and watches, should be avoided; studs on the ears and face are allowed.
  • Long hair must be tied back while working.
  • Wear proper protective gear when working with certain machines (gloves, masks, goggles, etc). 
  • Wear a mask when dust-making activities are happening. College-wide masking policy will be followed in the makerspace.   
prohibited Activities
  • No eating + drinking in the makerspace, especially near any of the machines; covered beverages are allowed in areas not physically close to equipment. 
  • No smoking + vaping in the makerspace.
  • Do not operate machinery you are not trained to use without assistance and or instruction.
  • Do not sleep in the Maker Space. 
General safety rules for digital fabrication and wood shop
  • Be aware of all tools around you and ask for help when you are uncertain about tools usage. 
  • When a machine is on, do not walk away from it unattended; most machines, especially in the woodshop, cannot be left alone while on.  
  • Do not try to stop any machines running with any part of your body. Use the power switch, unplug it, or ask for assistance from a staff member if unsure of how to proceed.  
  • Only one person should be working on a machine at a time.
  • Do not attempt to move any of the machines.
  • If you are going to operate certain machines (such as the bandsaw, table saw, drill press, and any other tools that could cause injury) while others are working in your proximity you must alert them to prevent injuries.
  • Use digital or online tutorials to understand tool usage in Makerspace. 
  • Report any observations of broken or unsafe equipment to staff members. 
  • Refrain from going past the indicated parameters when certain machines are in use (especially in the woodshop). 
Reporting an injury or accident
  • Report all injuries to the Maker Space staff after immediately seeking first aid.
  • Report all accidents and injuries to a Makerspace Supervisor.
  • If you or another community member experiences discrimination or harassment, report the incident to a staff member.
  • Reach out to any of the qualified staff members for instructions on how to operate a machine if you are uncertain/unsure.