Purpose
FiiNGO exists to support creativity, learning, and collaboration in a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment. This Code of Conduct sets clear expectations for behavior, safety, and shared responsibility when using tools, equipment, and communal spaces.
By entering and using FiiNGO, all members, guests, staff, and instructors agree to follow this Code of Conduct.
Core Values
- Safety First – Everyone is responsible for maintaining a safe working environment.
- Respect & Inclusion – We welcome makers of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels.
- Collaboration & Learning – We encourage knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and constructive feedback.
- Stewardship – Tools, materials, and spaces are shared resources and must be cared for responsibly.
Community Standards
All participants are expected to:
- Treat others with respect, patience, and courtesy.
- Foster a positive, supportive, and collaborative atmosphere.
- Use inclusive language and behavior.
- Refrain from harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or disruptive behavior of any kind.
- Respect personal boundaries and obtain consent when offering help or feedback.
Harassment or exclusionary behavior will not be tolerated.
Safety Expectations
- Follow all posted safety rules, signage, and staff instructions.
- Use only tools and equipment you are trained and authorized to operate.
- Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary (e.g., safety glasses, hearing protection, and appropriate gloves).
- Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of hazards.
- Never work while impaired by drugs, alcohol, extreme fatigue, or illness.
- Report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, or injuries to staff immediately.
Failure to follow safety rules may result in immediate suspension of access.
Tool & Equipment Use
General Tool Use
- Complete required orientation before using specialized equipment.
- Inspect tools before use and report any issues.
- Use tools only for their intended purpose.
- Never remove guards, safety devices, or emergency stops.
- Return tools to their designated storage locations after use.
Heavy & Powered Equipment
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Metalworking tools
- Woodworking machines
- CNC routers
- Laser cutters
- Industrial sewing machines
Additional expectations:
- Never leave powered equipment unattended while running.
- Maintain safe distances from others while operating machinery.
- Allow only one operator per machine unless explicitly designed otherwise.
Shared Space Etiquette
- Clean your workspace thoroughly after each session.
- Dispose of waste properly and recycle when possible.
- Label personal projects and materials clearly.
- Respect time limits and booking schedules for shared equipment.
- Do not use or alter others’ projects or materials without permission.
Collaboration & Learning Culture
We encourage a culture of mutual support and growth:
- Offer help kindly and accept feedback graciously.
- Share knowledge without judgment or gatekeeping.
- Be mindful that everyone has different skill levels and learning styles.
- Celebrate experimentation, creativity, and learning from mistakes.
- Offer unsolicited advice respectfully, and accept if it is declined gracefully.
Conduct That Is Not Permitted
The following behaviors are prohibited:
- Harassment, bullying, discrimination, or hate speech
- Reckless or unsafe tool use
- Ignoring staff instructions or safety rules
- Intentional damage or misuse of equipment
- Theft or vandalism
- Aggressive, threatening, or disruptive behavior
Conflict Resolution
If conflicts arise:
- Address issues calmly and respectfully whenever possible.
- Seek staff assistance if a resolution cannot be reached.
- Follow staff decisions, which are made with safety and community well-being in mind.
Enforcement & Accountability
To protect the FiiNGO community, violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:
- Verbal warnings
- Temporary suspension of tool access
- Revocation of membership or access
Serious or repeated violations may result in immediate removal from the space.
A Shared Responsibility
FiiNGO thrives because of the people who use it. Each member plays a role in:
- Maintaining safety
- Supporting one another
- Caring for shared resources
- Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome to learn and make
Thank you for being part of our community.
This Code of Conduct may be updated as the makerspace grows and evolves.