Safe Practices

Design Lab Rules

Stay safe – don’t harm yourself or others.
Respect and enjoy the tools and materials.
Stop and Ask if you are not sure. Know before you do.
Clean +1 – do one extra thing to improve the space.
Give back – support classmates and contribute to the lab community.

Don't hurt yourself, or anyone else.

Routines

Routine 1: Journal Expectations

Use your journal to record ideation and prototyping ideas.
Each entry must have a title and date.
Include inspiration research to make your journal more valuable.
Document all drawings, planning, and prototypes (or images of prototypes).
Keep entries in chronological order, using all pages (front and back).
Maintain a neat and tidy journal—sloppy work is not acceptable.
Use your journal in both homeroom and the design lab.
Bring your journal to every class.

Routine 2: Entering the Design Lab

Wait quietly outside the lab until invited to enter.
- Avoid distracting Y7 classmates using the lockers.
Enter and follow seating instructions:
- Option A: Sit in a circle for discussion.
- Option B: Sit in straight-lined chairs for a presentation.
- Option C: Stand or sit at tables for practical work.
Check the boards for the class title and expectations.
Follow all given directions promptly and respectfully.

Routine 3: Clean-Up

Return all tools and materials to their proper places.
Recycle appropriately—ask if unsure.
Clean table tops thoroughly.
Pick up all rubbish from the floor.
Sweep from the outer walls toward the centre of the room.
Collect all debris from the centre of the room.
Wipe down tables and return towels to the towel rails.
If painting, wash brushes, the sink, and the surrounding area.
Wait at your table quietly until dismissed.

Routine 4: Storage

Storage space in the lab is limited—store projects responsibly.

If space allows, store your items in the class tub.
Respect all projects in the tubs and on the shelves.
Items stored in the lab must go in one of three places:
- Class tubs (if space is available).
- Storage shelves for organized placement.
- Large items in the lower storage room.
All other projects should be kept in your classroom.

Routine 5: Reset the Space

Return all items (tools, projects, and furniture) to their designated places.
Take personal responsibility for cleaning up—leave the space cleaner than you found it.
Work as a team to ensure the lab is organized and ready for the next class.
Report any damaged or missing items to the teacher immediately.

Safety: Personal Space & Blood Bubble

Safety Bubble

Before cutting or polishing, respect the blood bubble.
Check your personal space (1 arm's length around your body).
Confirm with those close before you cut, sand or polish.

Show a thumbs up & get a thumbs up before you work.

The blood bubble is the location on a tool where you could pop a bubble. It is the place you could cut, pinch or hurt yourself. Use caution in and around the bubble. Always disconnect the power/battery before entering the blood bubble to change a bit, a blade or a sewing needle.

Tools have a blood bubble; keep your finger/body clear.

Teacher Resources

At Macquarie College, Primary RiskAssess is used to identify and manage potential risks in classroom activities proactively. This helps ensure a safe learning environment by assessing possible hazards, implementing appropriate controls, and safeguarding the well-being of both students and teachers. By incorporating these assessments, we create structured and confident approaches to lesson planning, minimising risks while promoting engaging and effective educational experiences.

Contact Chris Swafford to access the site. Each lesson should have a risk assessment.