Makespace Safe Practices

  1. PPE!
    Please wear your personal protective equipment.
  2. Choose the right tool:
    The right tool makes for easier making and keeps the tool from getting damaged.
  3. No trip wires!
    All cords on the ground and out of walkways.
  4. Tools do not migrate!
    Put your tools back where you got them from! Woodshop tools stay in the woodshop, and metal shop tools remain in the metal shop!
  5. Do not use the last of anything!
    The Last of anything is for emergencies only! Please let staff know when something runs out.
  6. Do not hoard materials!
    The materials in the makerspace are for everyone! You may use a few of anything, but bring your own if you need more than a few.
  7. Tools do not leave the space!
    MAKE tools may not be removed from the makerspace under any circumstances, even if you’re super cool. MAKE tools stay at MAKE.
  8. Please keep your messes contained!
    Making a mess at Make is okay; keep things contained and organized.
  9. Clean up!
    Clean up 10% more mess than you made. We need everyone’s help to keep the space clean and well-organized.

Policies

Safety

  • You must be trained on any tool you use in the space.
  • Closed-toed shoes are required throughout the space.
  • Eye protection and ear protection is required when appropriate.
  • Ask questions if you’re not sure about a tool.
  • Keep an eye out. If you see something dangerous, please let us know.

The Space

  • Clean up! Really, clean up your mess.
  • You share the space with other makers. Respect their work and space just like they respect yours.
  • Respect opening and closing times. Start your cleanup 30 minutes before closing.

Other Makers

  • Everyone is here to learn. Don’t discourage other makers.
  • Share tools and space. We’re makers; we like to get messy. But be respectful of others’ need for workspace and tools.
  • Be nice.
  • Don’t offer unsolicited advice.
  • Speak up if the situation is unsafe.

The Tools and Equipment

  • All tools must stay in the space. Period.
  • Clean the tools after you’re done using them. Nobody wants to deal with your mess.
  • Use tools for their intended purpose.
  • Put the tools back where you got them. We have a lot of tools; it’s hard to keep them organized.
  • Report damaged tools or any maintenance issues to the staff.

Materials

  • Most of the time, bring your materials. If you’re unsure, then get your own.
  • Materials are in scrap and collection bins throughout the space. You are welcome to use what you find in these places.
  • Never use the last of anything.
  • All the welders have welding wire pre-stocked. But if you’re working on a large project, please bring your own.

Storage

  • There is not enough room to provide storage for all members. However, if your projects require dry time or an overnight stay, talk to a staffer, and they will help arrange a space.
  • Lockers and storage bins are available to rent if you need to store tools or materials in the space.
  • We have limited metal storage in the yard. Talk to the staff to arrange the use of this space.

Deliveries

  • Let us know ahead of time if you’re expecting a delivery.
  • If you’re getting something delivered to Make, please meet the delivery. (We might not accept the delivery, and delivery drivers will not deliver when nobody is around.)
  • Please arrange help if you’re getting heavy items delivered, especially steel or lumber.

Inclusivity Statement

At Make Santa Fe, we believe that creativity thrives in a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment. We are committed to ensuring that people of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities feel safe, respected, and empowered in our space. We welcome makers regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status. We recognize that innovation is stronger when we learn from each other and actively work to foster a culture of belonging, empathy, and mutual support.

Anti-Harassment Policy

Make Santa Fe is committed to maintaining a respectful, harassment-free environment for all members, staff, and guests. Harassment of any kind—including but not limited to verbal abuse, intimidation, stalking, unwanted physical contact, or discriminatory remarks—will not be tolerated.

Unacceptable behaviors include:

  • Offensive or derogatory comments related to race, gender, sexuality, disability, or other personal characteristics.
  • Physical or verbal threats or intimidation.
  • Unwelcome sexual attention or advances.
  • Disruption of workshops or events in a hostile or aggressive manner.

Reporting Procedure:

If you experience or witness harassment, please report it to a staff member as soon as possible, either in person or by emailing build@makesantafe.org. All reports will be handled with discretion and taken seriously. Depending on the severity of the violation, action may include suspension of membership or permanent removal from the space.

Collaboration Guidelines

Make Santa Fe is a community built on curiosity, generosity, and shared learning. We encourage members to collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another, but we also believe in respecting each person’s process and workspace.

To promote healthy collaboration:

  • Ask before handling or modifying someone else’s project or materials.
  • Respect others’ focus—some makers prefer solitude while working.
  • Share tools and machines equitably and return them promptly and clean.
  • Offer help and advice only when it’s welcomed—consent matters in creative spaces, too.
  • Give credit where credit is due.

When in doubt, communicate with kindness. We are here to learn from one another and grow together as makers.