Equipment Safety & Clearance Policy

Your safety — and the safety of everyone in the space — is our top priority. All equipment at West Bethel Makerspace requires clearance before independent use.

Clearance means you've been trained, tested, or approved to safely operate a specific piece of equipment. Clearance is equipment-specific and must be on file before you use any equipment independently.

How to Get Cleared

Your onboarding session will help you identify the right path to clearance based on your experience.

Take a class

Most classes include clearance for the equipment used, or will prepare you to complete a Tool Test. If you demonstrate safe operation during class, clearance is granted and recorded in our system. Not all classes include clearance — this will be noted in the class description.

Schedule a tool test

Already experienced? Skip the class and request a Tool Test instead. A staff member or instructor will review safe operation, setup, and shutdown procedures. Demonstrate proper use and understanding of shop rules, and clearance is granted on the spot. Tool Tests are free for members and can be scheduled during onboarding or by appointment.

1:1 Instruction

Prefer a more personalized approach? Work one-on-one with an experienced instructor to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. If you demonstrate safe operation during your session, clearance is granted and recorded in our system. 1:1 instruction is available to purchase and schedule separately.

Clearance Rules

Using equipment without proper clearance is not permitted. Violations may result in loss of tool, shop, or makerspace access.

  • Clearance is equipment-specific, not shop-wide

  • A clearance badge must be visible at all times while using the workshop

  • Clearance can be revoked if the equipment is used unsafely

  • Some equipment may require refresher training after extended periods of inactivity

  • Staff may pause use at any time if something looks unsafe — this is about support, not punishment

Our Shared Responsibility

This makerspace is a community. Being cleared on equipment means:

  • You understand the risks

  • You respect the tools

  • You look out for yourself and others'

When in doubt, ask. We’re here to help you make, safely.