Safety & Conduct

Loveland CreatorSpace’s rules for safe, respectful, and responsible use of the space.

1. Core Safety Principles

• Safety is the responsibility of every member, not just instructors or area leads.

• If something looks unsafe, stop the activity immediately.

• When in doubt, ask for help — never guess with tools or equipment.

• Report hazards, broken tools, or unsafe behavior to an area lead or board member.

2. Required Conduct

• Treat all members with respect.

• Treat members' projects with respect - follow the Ask Before You Touch policy.

• Follow posted rules in each shop area.

• Clean up after yourself — leave the space better than you found it.

• Do not use tools you are not trained or authorized to use.  See the Tool Authorization System page for details on how to get authorized for restricted tools.

• No harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior.

• No alcohol or impairment while using tools or machinery.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Minimum PPE requirements vary by area, but general rules include:

• Closed‑toe shoes in all shop areas

• Safety glasses when using tools or near active work

• Hearing protection for loud equipment

• Gloves only when appropriate (never near rotating machinery)

• Tie back long hair and remove dangling jewelry

4. Emergency Procedures (Summary)

In any emergency:

• Stop all activity

• Call 911 if needed

• Evacuate if smoke, fire, or electrical hazards are present

• Notify a board member or area lead

• Follow posted evacuation routes

See the full Emergency Procedures page for detailed instructions and equipment locations.

5. Incident Reporting

All incidents must be reported, including:

• Injuries (even minor ones)

• Near misses

• Equipment damage

• Unsafe behavior

• Tool misuse

Use the Incident Reporting subpage to access the form and instructions.

6. Area‑Specific Rules

Each shop area has its own rules and training requirements:

• Woodshop

• Metal shop

• Laser cutters

• CNC

• 3D printing

• Electronics

• Welding

• Glass Kiln

• General workspace

Members must complete required training before using restricted tools.

7. Member Responsibilities

• Follow all posted rules

• Maintain a clean workspace

• Respect shared tools and equipment

• Report issues promptly

• Help maintain a safe environment for everyone

• Support new members and encourage safe practices

8. Enforcement

Violations may result in:

• Verbal warning

• Temporary suspension of tool access

• Membership suspension

• Membership revocation (for severe or repeated violations)

The board reserves the right to take action to protect member safety.