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
| Material | Hazard |
|---|---|
| PVC | Releases chlorine gas |
| Polycarbonate (>1 mm) | Poor cutting performance and fire risk |
| ABS | May release cyanide-containing fumes |
| HDPE | Melting and fire hazard |
| Polystyrene Foam | Highly flammable |
| Polypropylene Foam | Highly flammable |
| Fiberglass | Fume generation |
| Coated Carbon Fiber | Noxious 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