The code of conduct applies to all patrons and guests, and will be posted in the space (updated versions will be in a new color). All patrons and guests in space are required to sign a liability waiver. A board member can (subject to review by full board) suspend / expel a patron or guest endangering the patrons or the existence / spirit of the space by breaching the code.
The board will consider patrons preferences in their decision-making, but does ultimately make the rules. Non-board members will not represent themselves as speaking for the organization except as specifically-authorized.
That said, the intent of this space is to be a shared space for fun, enrichment, and learning. Tools and space are cool, but being supportive of each other is what makes this a makerspace.
The first requirement of being part of an all-volunteer organization: “play well with others.” When everything is done with volunteer labor, the lost labor of the people you discourage (or drive off) counts against how productive you think you are.
Spark is an 18+ oriented space, so minors must be accompanied closely by Parent or Legal Guardian at all times, stay clear of dangerous tools without specific permission/oversight by a patron, and are not allowed to have keys to the space. Minors must have their liability form signed by a Parent or Legal Guardian.
Generally avoid activities that can harm the space and each other, or intimidate: Overusing / monopolizing major tools (ie, making other patrons feel like they are intruding by wanting to use the space), using dangerous or unfamiliar tools without sign-off by the designated tool expert, bringing car type-objects into space, painting other than outside with dropcloth, leaving non-patron guests unattended in the space outside of public events (or allowing them to use patron-only tools), sleeping/living in the space (beyond 20 min seated power nap), bringing firearms into space, or generally pursuing illegal and/or dangerous activities.
Pandemic-related masks are generally optional, but if someone asks for masks to be worn, please accommodate, everyone has different risk thresholds and considerations.
Safety is important. This includes not being under the influence of intoxicants or working alone in the complex while engaging in any potentially dangerous activity. In general, if you are unsure of how to safely do something, don’t do it.
When you break something, own up to it. If you have any doubt about fixing it, ask for help. Don’t make someone feel bad for breaking things, help them understand what went wrong.
Clean, Maintain, Organize, Improve. Strive to leave the space better than you found it. When done working, clean the area worked in, and take out your trash.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Answer such requests kindly; eventually you’ll have to ask for help too.
Spark owned tools/resources must stay on the premises so that other patrons may use them. Removing such tools/resources from the space without authorization from an Officer or member of the Board of Directors is theft. An Officer or Director may authorize the temporary removal of a tool/resource for purposes relevant to organizational business.
Storage: Makerspaces tend to get excessively cluttered. We will implement specific policies for a limited retention ‘free stuff’ table, and for other items/tools brought with intention of removing them within a timeframe set by policy, but otherwise permanent donations beyond certain pre-approved categories (including TP, paper towels, trash bags, coffee, etc) will need to be approved by the board. No vehicles to be left parked overnight. Let us know about items that can be made available to the space, but most items are better kept at home until needed.
RFID-Key Access: Those over 18 years old, who have set-up a $50+/mo recurring donation through the sparkstudiosalem.com website, attended an open house, shown photo ID, signed the liability waiver, and agreed to the code of conduct, will be considered key-access Patrons and should arrange with a board member to get their RFID-key.
Regardless of contribution level, RFID-keys will be deactivated on cancellation/failure of recurring donation at the minimal required level ($50). This RFID should never be marked or mentioned to anyone as giving access to the space, and should not be loaned out to anyone. The space is not to be occupied during ‘overnight hours’ (1am-8am) without special permission from the board.