Ashfield Makerspace (AMS) Membership Terms & Conditions
Every member, volunteer and guest of the space is expected
to follow the rules.
It is important for everyone in the space to adhere to the rules in order to maintain a safe
and respectful environment for all. If there are any concerns or complaints, they should be addressed promptly and
appropriately through our complaints policy. Failure to follow the rules may result in consequences, including
revocation of membership privileges. It is crucial that all individuals involved understand and respect the
guidelines set forth in order to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
Safety
It is essential that you use AMS safely as a responsible adult. We encourage members to challenge unsafe practices by other members. If you do not feel comfortable challenging a member, we welcome emails to complaints@makerspaceashfield.org.uk
Wearing safety gear is your own responsibility. You must provide your own appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Details of what PPE is required and where will be covered as part of inductions, along with indications as to where items can be purchased. If you are uncertain what PPE is required please check with a committee member.
It is important to prioritise safety when using tools, as they can pose potential risks if not used properly. By requiring an induction for certain tools, we ensure that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate them safely.
The inductor plays a crucial role in verifying that individuals have completed the required induction before using the tool. Maintaining records of inductions through your AMS pass helps track who has been trained on specific tools and ensures that only qualified individuals are using them. This not only promotes a safer work environment but also helps prevent accidents or misuse of tools.
By using a tool, individuals are essentially certifying that they are comfortable and competent in its use. It is important for everyone to take responsibility for their own safety and be aware of their own limitations when it comes to operating tools. If you have been inducted but still feel uncertain of your ability to operate a tool safely you must seek further guidance/training before you operate the tool. Continuous training and education on tool safety are essential to prevent accidents and promote a culture of safety in Makerspace.
We, AMS abide by The Health & Safety at Work
Act.
You also have responsibilities under this legislation, which include taking reasonable care of others’
safety when operating tools and machinery.
Please note: Unlike a workplace, no one but yourself is compelling you to undertake any actions within AMS. You MUST determine yourself that the equipment is safe to use, that you have the skills to safely use the equipment, and the environment is safe to work in. If you are not completely satisfied with this do not engage in the activity until your safety concerns are satisfied.
When you are working on your own in AMS, please take extra
care when using potentially dangerous tools. In case of genuine emergencies, you should ring the emergency services.
The official address for AMS is written on various posters and boards throughout the building and the What 3 Words
for the building are ///volume.cross.brief.
If you have suffered an injury or near miss, you should report this
using the Near Miss and Accident Reporting Form.
First aid kits are available on-site—familiarise yourself with
their location.
Membership, Volunteers, and Induction
Any person aged 14 or over can join AMS by visiting an open tour event, or by booking a tour on our website, and by providing correct contact details, setting up and maintaining monthly payments to AMS, and attending required inductions.
We will show you what equipment and rooms we have and how our AMS operates. We will also inform you of how much it costs to join. We welcome questions so please ask the volunteer leading your tour.
All members and setup volunteers must complete a Health and Safety Induction before participating. This building induction covers safety protocols, workspace layout, and shared facilities (toilets, canteen).
AMS access is strictly 14+ only. (14-17 with a parent or guardian)
Application forms can be completed through our website. Once your application has been approved, you have attended our required inductions and your first standing order payment received by our bank, you will be contacted to visit the space and collect your key fob. Lost or damaged key fobs will be replaced at a cost of £5 on collection.
Setup volunteers assist in organizing and preparing workspaces but are not considered full members until completing induction and approval.
Standard membership is £15 per month.
From time to time our membership contributions may be
adjusted based on the cost of providing services and maintaining the organisation. This ensures that we can continue
to offer high-quality programs and resources to our members. We appreciate your understanding and support in helping
us sustain our mission, and you may be asked to increase your contribution. Any increase in membership fees will be
notified 3 months in advance.
If you stop paying your monthly payment your membership will be suspended and your
access to the space revoked. If you recommence payments within 2 months of the date of missed payment your
membership will be reinstated and access restored. If payments are not recommenced within that period, your
membership will be cancelled and any in progress projects left in the space will be disposed of. If you wish to
rejoin after this time you will need to go through the normal new member process, including all required
inductions.
AMS is required to keep a record of the name, and address of each member. It is very important that
you keep this up-to-date, including your full name, address ,email, telephone number and emergency contact
details.
We comply with the UK GDPR regarding the storage of data.We are licensed with the ICO, or Information
Commissioner’s Office, who set data protection rules in the UK, ensuring personal data is processed lawfully,
fairly, and transparently, with principles like purpose limitation, data minimisation, accuracy, and security at its
core.
Access and Use
Startup Phase: During initial setup, opening hours will be
limited and announced in advance. Future 24/7 Access: The Makerspace intends to operate 24/7 once fully established.
Only inducted fob holders may access the AMS
The Lone Working Policy must be followed.
High-risk equipment
requires separate training and induction
Some noisy equipment may be limited to operating during certain times to
respect our neighbours
Lone Working Policy
Carry a charged mobile phone for emergencies.
Inform a trusted
contact of your visit and provide the Makerspace address:
Ashfield Makerspace, 70 High Pavement,
Sutton-in-Ashfield NG17 1BT Entrance in Langton Road, Sutton in Ashfield.
CCTV is in operation for safety and
security.
CCTV Monitoring
CCTV is used for safety and security.
Footage may be reviewed by authorised
committee members, trustees and/or emergency services if incidents occur.
Recorded information is stored securely
and our storage maintains confidentiality, integrity and availability. This is to ensure that we protect the rights
of individuals that we record by surveillance systems and use the information effectively for our intended purpose.
Under the UK GDPR and DPA 2018, we have ensured that the personal data we are processing is adequate, relevant and
limited to what is necessary.
Shared Facilities – Canteen
It is important to remember that the communal canteen is a shared space, not just for AMS members but also for other users of the building. Keeping the area clean and tidy shows respect for everyone who uses it and helps create a positive environment for all. By being mindful of our actions and cleaning up after ourselves, we can ensure that the communal canteen remains a welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone. Let’s work together to maintain a clean and organised area for all to enjoy.
Conduct and Behaviour
Members are expected to adhere to the organisation’s code of conduct at all times
by acting responsibly, respectfully and collaboratively.
Harassment, discrimination, or intimidation will not be
tolerated and any violations of the code of conduct will be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
It is
important for members to communicate openly and honestly with each other to maintain a positive and inclusive
environment and unsafe or disruptive behaviour may result in suspension or membership termination.
Respect the Space
Please respect the space by cleaning up after yourself and being careful not to damage equipment and tools.
If we all endeavour to leave the space a little bit cleaner and tidier than we found it we will always have a lovely
place to make. We appreciate that accidents do happen from time to time. All we ask is that you report any damaged
or broken tools and equipment using the forms available. This ensures that the necessary repairs are carried out by
a competent repairer and other users are aware that the equipment is out of order.
Do not attempt any repair
yourself on any piece of equipment.
It is important for members to respect the tools and equipment available at
AMS by not borrowing or removing them from the space. Intentionally removing any property, other than your own, from
AMS will result in immediate termination of your membership and the involvement of the Police. This ensures that all
members have access to the tools they need when they need them. Additionally, AMS cannot guarantee uptime on any
tools or equipment, as they may require maintenance or repair at any time. It is up to each member to use the tools
responsibly and report any issues to a committee member so that they can be addressed promptly. By following these
guidelines, we can create a safe and productive environment for all makers in the community.
Liability and Personal Responsibility
∙ Members are responsible for their own safety and belongings.
∙ AMS is not liable for
injuries or damages due to misuse of equipment or policy violations.
It is important for members to follow all
safety guidelines and rules while using the equipment and facilities in the AMS. This includes wearing appropriate
safety gear, using equipment properly, and being aware of their surroundings at all times. By taking personal
responsibility for their own safety and belongings, members can help create a safe and productive environment for
everyone in the Makerspace.
Storage in the Space
AMS has limited storage. We have a members storage room where boxes can be rented to store your ongoing projects but due to the limited space you may be asked to relinquish your box if it is unused for a period of time. A committee member will advise you if this is necessary.
Donations
We have limited space for storage. Our
present rule is not to accept donations of obsolete/aged equipment. We are always interested in donations of tools,
components, materials etc. If you have anything that you wish to donate please email us first on
finance@makerspaceashfield.org.uk with details of what you have and photographs if possible. We will then pass these
on to the relevant team leads for their feedback.
We appreciate your generosity and willingness to contribute to
our cause. However, it is important for us to carefully consider all donations to ensure they align with our mission
and current needs. By asking for permission before bringing in donations, we can better manage our resources and
ensure that each contribution makes a meaningful impact. If your donation is not accepted, please understand that it
is not a reflection of the value of your gift, but rather a decision based on our specific requirements at the time. Your understanding
and cooperation are greatly appreciated as we strive to make the most effective use of all donations received. Thank
you for your support.
Amendments to Terms and Conditions
These Terms and Conditions may be updated
periodically. Any updates will be clearly posted on the noticeboards. By continuing to use the services provided,
users are agreeing to abide by the updated Terms and Conditions.
If users do not agree with any changes made,
they have the option to discontinue using the services.
No Smoking or Vaping Policy
AMS is a no-smoking,
no-vaping community. Smoke alarms are installed throughout the building, including in the toilets.
Food and
Beverages
You must not consume food or drink whilst using any AMS equipment or other electronic technology.
However, refreshments are permitted in the communal canteen space. Covered mugs /drinks bottles allowed in the
space.
Filming in the Space
AMS is a private property dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration among its members. As such, access to the facility is restricted to individuals who have obtained membership or have been granted permission by the owners. This policy extends to the use of photography within the space, as there is no default permission for visitors or members to take photos or videos without prior consent. This measure is in place not only to protect the privacy and intellectual property of those utilizing the resources within AMS but also to maintain a secure and controlled environment for all participants. Members are encouraged to respect these guidelines and seek authorization before capturing any images on the premises, ensuring that everyone’s rights and interests are acknowledged and upheld within this professional setting.
Be Legal
AMS upholds strict standards of conduct and compliance with legal
regulations. Illegal activities include copyright infringement, unauthorised access to computer systems, and
consumption or distribution of alcohol and illegal drugs.
Any activities found to be in violation of these laws
will be promptly addressed and prohibited from continuing within our premises. This ensures a safe and ethical
environment for all our members and collaborators.
If you take prescribed medication, please ensure that you
comply with the guidance surrounding your medication and the use of machinery.
Etiquette
Sleeping anywhere on AMS property is forbidden. These are collaborative workspaces, not living quarters, and this rule is to maintain order and respect for other users.
Music
You are not permitted to play/broadcast music whilst in the space as to do so requires a PRS licence.
Visitors
Visitors are not allowed in the space unless accompanied by a committee member.
Sharing RFID tags
You are not permitted to share your RFID tag with anyone else either for admission through the space or to use equipment that requires an induction.