Safety First
Working in a FabLab involves operating powerful machinery and handling various materials. Safety should always be your top priority. Here are essential safety guidelines to follow.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safety glasses - Always wear when operating machines
- Hearing protection - Required for loud equipment like CNC routers
- Dust mask or respirator - When cutting or sanding materials
- Closed-toe shoes - Protect feet from falling objects
- No loose clothing or jewelry - Can get caught in machinery
Machine-Specific Safety
3D Printers
- Never touch the heated bed or nozzle during operation
- Ensure proper ventilation, especially when printing ABS
- Keep flammable materials away from the printer
- Never leave prints unattended for extended periods
Laser Cutters
- Never operate without proper ventilation/extraction
- Never cut PVC or vinyl (releases toxic chlorine gas)
- Keep the lid closed during operation
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
- Never leave the machine unattended while cutting
CNC Machines
- Secure workpieces properly before cutting
- Use appropriate feed rates and cutting depths
- Clear chips regularly to prevent buildup
- Know the location of the emergency stop button
Efficiency Tips
Plan Your Work
Before starting any fabrication project, create a detailed plan. This includes material selection, machine settings, and estimated time. Good planning reduces waste and saves time.
Optimize Your Designs
Design with manufacturing in mind. Consider material constraints, machine capabilities, and assembly requirements early in the design process.
Test First
Always run test cuts or prints before committing to final production. This helps identify issues with settings or design without wasting materials.
Lab Etiquette
- Clean up after yourself - leave the lab better than you found it
- Report any machine issues or damage immediately
- Respect scheduled machine time
- Help fellow makers when you can
- Document and share your knowledge with the community
Continuous Learning
Digital fabrication technology evolves rapidly. Stay updated by participating in workshops, following online communities, and experimenting with new techniques. The DesignEDU platform provides ongoing resources to help you continue developing your skills.