Welcome to BOSS!
We are Building Out Safer Spaces and Skill Sets for Women, Queer, Trans, and Femme of Center folx and we are glad you are here!
Below are our Guidelines and Safety Procedures
At BOSS, our community's safety is a top priority. In order to be a BOSS you must 1) sign a liability release and waiver 2) agree to the Guidelines and Safety Procedures. We need your help making BOSS the safest place to learn and create. We encourage questions! We ask that you care for yourselves and each other, if you see something unsafe, please let us know immediately. <3
Our workshop is dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and inclusivity. We aim to provide a supportive environment where women, queer, trans and femme of center folx can collaborate, learn, and create freely. We believe in equal access to tools, resources, and opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or identity.
General Guidelines
1. Respect and Inclusivity
Be Kind and Respectful: Treat all members with kindness, dignity, and respect. This includes being mindful of pronouns, gender identities, and personal space.
Zero Tolerance for Discrimination: We do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination based on gender, sexuality, race, disability, or other marginalized identities. Any behavior that threatens the safety or well-being of others will result in immediate consequences, including removal from the space.
Inclusive Language: Use gender-neutral and inclusive language in communication. Be mindful of pronouns, and if you're unsure, politely ask someone for their pronouns.
Support Each Other: Share knowledge, offer help, and collaborate in a spirit of mutual support. We are here to empower each other and create an environment of growth and learning.
2. Tool and Equipment Usage
Training Required: All members must complete a safety training session before using certain tools and equipment, particularly those that require specialized knowledge (e.g., power tools, saws, welding equipment).
Supervision: If you are unfamiliar with a tool or machine, seek assistance from a trained staff member or a fellow member who has been trained. Do not operate any equipment unless you have had thorough training in its use and safety procedures.
Look out for yourself and each other. If you see someone doing something unsafe, they may not know it is unsafe. Approach them with generosity and care and let them know why you are concerned about what they are doing. If they cannot hear the feedback or if they continue doing something unsafe, involve a staff member immediately.
Respect the Space: Clean up after yourself and leave tools in the condition you found them. This helps ensure that everyone has access to well-maintained equipment.
3. Community Standards
Safe Environment: We aim to maintain our space as a safe zone. If at any time you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or need support, reach out to a staff member, a trusted community member.
No Tolerance for Violence or Harassment: Verbal, physical, or emotional abuse, bullying, or intimidation will not be tolerated.
Consent for touch is mandatory. Ask for consent before all touch - even well-intentioned touch, such as hugging or guiding someone’s hands on a tool. The only exception to this would be in an extreme emergency that would result in serious injury without touch interference (such as trying to catch someone if they were falling).
Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of other members. If someone shares personal information with you, keep it confidential unless they explicitly say otherwise.
4. Conflict Resolution
Open Communication: If issues arise, try to resolve them through open, respectful dialogue. Address concerns calmly and constructively.
Report Violations: If you witness or experience any violations of these guidelines, report them to buildingoutsaferspaces@gmail.com All reports will be handled with confidentiality and seriousness.
Safety Procedures
1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Required PPE: Mandatory PPE for shop use includes Safety googles, ear protection, closed toe shoes, no loose fitting clothes, no dangling jewelry. Always follow safety instructions provided by staff or instructors.
Check Before Use: Before beginning any project, ensure that you have the proper PPE for the tasks you will be performing and ensure that the machine/tool is fully assembled and operational. If you are unsure, ask for guidance from a staff member.
2. Machinery and Equipment Safety
Inspect Equipment Before Use: Always check that machines are in good working order and that safety guards and emergency shutoffs are functioning properly.
Turn Off When Not in Use: Always turn off equipment when not actively using it. This includes unplugging or shutting down larger machinery if you are leaving the space for an extended period.
Emergency Stops: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency stop buttons or switches on all machines. In the event of an emergency, shut off the machine immediately.
3. Workstation Etiquette
Clear Work Area: Keep your workspace clean and free from clutter. This reduces the risk of accidents and helps maintain an organized environment.
Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your work area is well-ventilated, especially when using materials that produce fumes, like paints, adhesives, or plastics.
Proper Disposal: Dispose of materials like scraps, chemicals, and waste in the designated containers. Do not leave dangerous or hazardous materials lying around.
4. Electrical Safety
No Overloading Circuits: Avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords. Always plug in equipment directly into a wall outlet, and do not daisy-chain multiple extension cords together.
Inspect Cords and Plugs: Before using electrical tools, check for exposed wires, frayed cords, or damaged plugs. If you notice any issues, do not use the equipment and report it immediately.
Water and Electricity: Keep electrical tools away from water, and do not operate them with wet hands or in wet conditions. Do not lay drinking vessels on top of machines.
5. Fire Safety
Know the Exits: Familiarize yourself with the nearest exits and the location of fire extinguishers. In case of fire, evacuate calmly and quickly.
Flammable Materials: Store flammable materials in designated areas, and do not use open flames (such as welding torches) near flammable materials unless in a designated, well-ventilated area.
Fire Extinguishers: Know how to use a fire extinguisher (P.A.S.S. method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep). If in doubt, always evacuate and call for professional assistance.
6. Handling Hazardous Materials
Labeling and Storage: Properly label and store hazardous materials, chemicals, and solvents according to the guidelines provided in the SDS binder. Never leave chemicals unattended, and dispose of them safely. When introducing new chemicals to makerspace, always print SDS sheets and add them to the binder.
Avoid Inhalation: Always use appropriate ventilation systems when working with chemicals or materials that can produce fumes or dust. Wear the appropriate/designated mask or respirator (see PPE).
Mental and Emotional Safety
1. Respect Boundaries
Consent: Always ask for permission before handling someone else's materials, tools, or equipment. Respect physical and emotional boundaries.
Supportive Environment: If a member shares personal experiences or struggles related to their identity, respond with empathy and respect. If you are unsure of how to offer support, ask what they need.
2. Mental Health and Well-Being
Check-in with Yourself: Workshops can be high-energy environments. Take breaks when needed to recharge. Listen to your body and mind and prioritize your health. A bad mental health day may mean you need to step out of space for safety of self and others.
Access and Affordability
Sliding Scale Fees: We believe that financial barriers should not prevent anyone from using the makerspace. We offer sliding scale usage and workshop fees based on income and need.
Support for Accessibility: If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know so we can make accommodations. This includes physical access to space, equipment, materials, or any other adjustments necessary.
Our workshop is more than just a physical space, it’s a community. We aim to create an environment that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and safety for all. Whether you're building a project, learning a new skill, or collaborating with others, you are an essential part of this community. Thank you for contributing to a positive and empowering BOSS space for everyone.