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Safety in Makerspaces

These guidelines apply to all employees, students, and visitors using makerspace equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, etchers, soldering equipment, saws, sanders, CNC mills, and similar tools.

Important: Hot work is prohibited unless a designated hot-work area has been approved by the UCLA Fire Department.

Related Documents

  • Respiratory exposure to dusts, fumes, vapors, smoke, and gases.
  • Laser-related eye injuries.
  • Fire hazards from improper materials or operation.
  • Tool and equipment injuries.
  • Noise-induced hearing loss.
  • Cuts, lacerations, burns, and scrapes.
  • Hazards identified through site-specific Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs).

Users must understand manufacturer operating manuals, safety instructions, maintenance requirements, and operational hazards before using equipment.

  • Equipment-specific training is required.
  • Training must be documented.
  • Records must include date, instructor, participants, and training topics.
  • Training records must be retained during employment and for five years after separation.
  • Access is controlled by the managing department.
  • First-time users must complete safety training.
  • Only authorized and trained users may operate equipment.
  • Users may only work during posted operating hours.
  • Makerspace staff must be present during use.

Maintenance

  • Maintenance may only be performed by trained personnel.
  • Equipment modifications require manufacturer approval.
  • Do not operate equipment tagged out under LOTO.
  • Report maintenance concerns immediately.

Housekeeping

  • Keep walkways clear.
  • Return tools after use.
  • Dispose of waste properly.
  • Clean as you go.
  • Food and drinks are prohibited.
  • Safety glasses are required whenever work is being performed.
  • N95 respirators require training and fit testing when mandatory.
  • Appropriate gloves must be worn when handling hazards.
  • Follow manufacturer and SDS PPE requirements.
  • Follow controls identified in Job Hazard Analyses.

Allowed Materials

  • Only manufacturer-approved materials may be used.
  • SDS documentation must be available for all materials.
  • Powder media operations require supervision.
  • Resin printers must be operated in ventilated enclosures.

Training

  • Introduction to 3D Printing training required.
  • Additional training required for powder and resin printers.

PPE

  • Safety glasses required during operation.
  • Nitrile or latex gloves for resin and powder handling.
  • N95 or higher respiratory protection for powder media.
Never leave a laser cutter unattended. Improper materials or settings may create a fire hazard.

Prohibited Materials

MaterialHazard
PVCReleases chlorine gas
Polycarbonate (>1 mm)Poor cutting performance and fire risk
ABSMay release cyanide-containing fumes
HDPEMelting and fire hazard
Polystyrene FoamHighly flammable
Polypropylene FoamHighly flammable
FiberglassFume generation
Coated Carbon FiberNoxious fumes

Common Permitted Materials

  • Wood
  • Plywood
  • MDF
  • Paper and Cardstock
  • Cardboard
  • Cork
  • Acrylic (PMMA)
  • Kapton
  • Mylar
  • Cloth and Cotton
  • Natural Leather
  • Non-chlorinated Rubber

Material Hazards

  • Lead-based solder may create lead exposure hazards.
  • Lead-free solder should be used whenever feasible.
  • Rosin flux fumes can contribute to occupational asthma.

Safe Work Practices

  • Do not touch the heated tip.
  • Use tweezers, clamps, or tongs when handling components.
  • Return the iron to a stand when not in use.
  • Wash hands