Space and Storage Policy

Principle / Overview

TAP:lab is not a storage facility. In order to function successfully TAP:lab needs to ensure the space is used as efficiently and effectively as possible. Members need to be able to store their own equipment, access tools and equipment and have space to make. Above all, the use of the space needs to be safe, and maintaining an orderly, uncluttered environment is part of this.

Application

All members.

Related documents

• Health and Safety policy
• Donations policy (Hardware)

Reason for policy

In order for the makerspace to function, everyone needs to be able to move, to find what they need and to store and access their projects. Having a clear policy on space will help to ensure everyone knows what should go where, minimising friction among members.

Policy details/Implementation

1. Space is divided into two areas: floor space and wall space:

Floorspace:

1. 1. Rolling storage: workshop, member and tool storage. Storage containers are used to store: the personal tools and equipment of members; materials for regularly-run workshops.
   2. Lockable storage (accessible by committee). Expensive items (laptops, mBots etc.) are to be locked in the secure storage. Executive are in charge of the combination lock.
   3. Machinery/plant. Any machinery or plant which is not practical to pack away at the end of a workshop (such as a 3D printer, CNC router, a laser cutter or vinyl cutter) can occupy floor space as longer as it is unobtrusive and doesn’t overly impact on the operation of the makerspace.
   4. General working space (including desks/soldering work stations). The general working space is to be kept clear for workshops and for TAP:lab members to work on projects.

Wall space:

1. 1. Pegboard: commonly used tools and/or consumables will be stored on the pegboard, but everything must be compliant with the Health and Safety policy i.e. no dangerous tools openly accessible on pegboard.
   2. Library: reference material related to making.
   3. Blackboard: topical, relevant notices and other information may be written on the blackboard.
   4. Signage: Health and safety, code of conduct.
   5. Display/showcase: small projects that members would like to display to other members should be accompanied with an explanation and the name of the person to whom it should be returned.

2. Impound: any items left out will be dated and placed in the impound. After a month they will be disposed of.
3. Member storage is personal and private. No items may be ‘borrowed’ or used without the explicit approval of that member.