CNC Orientation (Wood‑Cutting CNC Routers)

All members must complete a CNC Orientation before using any CNC router at Loveland CreatorSpace. This orientation covers the CNC area layout, safety expectations, material rules, and emergency procedures for the AvidCNC PRO4896 and the 750mm x 750mm CNC Router.

Orientation does not include tool authorization — separate training and authorization are required for each CNC machine.

This checklist is used by Area Leads, instructors, and board members when conducting a CNC orientation.

1. CNC Area Layout & Safety Zones

Members should be shown:

• Location of the AvidCNC PRO4896

• Location of the 750mm x 750mm CNC Router

• Gantry travel zones for both machines

• Safe standing zones during operation

• Bit/tool storage locations

• Material storage and spoilboard storage

• Computer workstation and control station locations

Members must understand:

• Never stand in the spindle’s travel path

• Never reach under the gantry while powered

• Never place hands near the bit during jog or setup

• Keep clear of the machine during rapid movements

2. Emergency Equipment Locations

Members should know the location of:

• Fire extinguishers

• Fire alarm (3D printer area, right of front door)

• First aid kit (metal cabinet near eye‑wash station)

• Eye wash station (right side of hall entering shop)

• Emergency exits (front and back doors)

• Outdoor meeting point (NW corner of 4th & Railroad)

Members must understand how to:

• Hit the machine’s emergency stop

• Pause or stop a job safely

• Shut down the machine and controller

3. CNC Area Rules & Expectations

Members must understand:

• CNC routers are restricted tools — authorization required

• No loose clothing, jewelry, or untied hair

• Safety glasses required at all times

• Hearing protection recommended

• Never leave a CNC machine unattended while running

• No working alone on high‑risk CNC operations

• No unauthorized toolpath changes on shared computers

• Report damaged bits, loose screws, or spoilboard issues immediately

4. Material Rules

Approved materials:

• Wood (softwood, hardwood, plywood, MDF)

• Acrylic

• HDPE

• Foam

• Certain plastics (ask if unsure)

Not approved:

• PVC

• Polycarbonate

• Fiberglass

• Metals

• Unknown plastics

• Any material that produces toxic fumes or melts unpredictably

Members must know:

• Where to store sheet goods

• How to dispose of offcuts

• How to identify unsafe materials

5. Dust Collection & Cleanup

Members should learn:

• How to turn on dust collection

• Which CNC machines require dust collection

• How to empty dust bins or notify a lead

• How to vacuum chips safely

• How to clean spoilboards without damaging them

• How to leave the CNC area cleaner than they found it

6. Software Workflow Overview (Routers Only)

Orientation covers the workflow, not training.

Members should understand the basic flow:

1. Design (CAD: Fusion 360, Illustrator, Inkscape, etc.)

2. CAM (VCarve Pro for both CNC routers)

3. Simulation (preview toolpaths)

4. Export (correct post‑processor for AvidCNC or 4×4 router)

5. Machine Setup (workholding, zeroing, bit selection)

6. Run Job (monitor continuously)

Members do not need to demonstrate software proficiency during orientation — that happens during authorization.

7. Workholding Basics

Members should understand:

• Screws, clamps, cam clamps, vacuum hold‑down (if installed)

• Why friction alone is unsafe

• How small parts require tabs or special fixtures

• How improper workholding causes bit breaks, chatter, or dangerous movement

8. CNC Etiquette

Members should learn:

• Communicate clearly when sharing the CNC area

• Ask before moving someone’s material

• Do not interrupt someone mid‑setup or mid‑cut

• Do not monopolize machines for multi‑hour jobs without communication

• Return bits, collets, clamps, and tools to proper storage

9. Tool Access & Authorization

Orientation does not grant authorization.

Members must understand:

• Which CNC routers require authorization

• How to request authorization

• Who the CNC Area Lead is

• Where posted rules are located

• That authorization requires completing the Tool Authorization Checklist

10. Confirmation

The member has completed the CNC Orientation and understands the CNC router area layout, safety expectations, software workflow, and emergency procedures.

Orientation Completed By: Area Lead / Instructor / Board Member ___________________

Member Name: ____________________________ Date:____________________________