Safety

Hazards

Tie back or remove loose hair, clothing, jewelry, etc.

Do

Read the Safe Work Procedure and obtain North Forge approval before using the equipment for the first time.
Plan cuts carefully; use safety devices (push sticks, clamps, sleds, featherboards) where required.
Maintain a calm but vigilant attitude. If you are stressed or in a hurry, it’s best not to use the equipment.
Tie back long hair and jewelry; remove earbuds and hoodie cords.
Check the workspace for slip and trip hazards.
Ensure the equipment is in good condition (guards installed and working, blades are sharp and intact, no clogs in dust extraction hoses).
Make sure others in the area are aware of what you're doing. Make sure to warn any bystanders if your work can affect them.
Inspect the material for cracks, knots, or debris before starting - material can shatter or kick back if it is not stable.
Stand outside of any kickback zones.
Check the equipment for trapped debris when done, particularly trapped beside or under blades.
Use a brush and/or vacuum to clean most of the dust before finishing with compressed air.

Do not

Use the equipment if you are tired, intoxicated, or otherwise impaired
Rush
Distract operators - if you need to get someone’s attention, stand to the side and wait until they notice you. Do not wave, shout, or touch the operator.
Leave the equipment with equipment still running - note that hearing protection can prevent users from hearing when the blade is/is not running.
Cut or sand metal due to risk of sparks and equipment/property damage.

Check the working area for slip and trip hazards (sawdust, oil, offcuts) before and after working
Do not leave air hoses or extension cords laying across walkways where people can trip on them
Check hoses for excess sawdust or other clogs
Empty the dust collector if it is filled to more than halfway up the viewing window (~1 garbage bag worth of dust)
Empty waste bins if they are more than 75% full
- Bag waste should be less than 6x6”
- Blunt any sharp corners that could puncture the bag
- Replace waste bags after emptying
- Firewood bins are only for untreated wood with no paints or stains
Return all fab lab tools to their proper locations
Remove all personal tools, materials, and equipment from the room
- Fire code prohibits storing material in the wood room
Turn off the equipment and dust collector.
Turn off the room exhaust if you are the last one in the room.
- Room exhaust is interlocked with equipment power; turning off the exhaust will turn off all equipment in the room!