Diyode is a not-for-profit group with a mandate to provide community, space and tools to the makers of Guelph. All members are responsible for many of the basic tasks in the space, such as keeping it clean and orderly, and keeping everything safe. We have a board of directors which are elected each year to take on the extra responsibility of keeping the organization healthy and strong. Directors can be found on the below on the Meet the Directors Tab. Elections are held once per year at our Annual General Meeting in the spring.
Safety
There is no such thing as a safe tool, only a safe operator. Even the simplest of tools can cause harm and/or damage. At the end of the day you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those around you. In order to help determine the amount of caution required for each tool DIYode has three classifications for tools:
- Un-labelled tool: The tool does not require any training. You are still expected to be cautious with it.
- Green labelled tool: The tool does not require training. However, the tool carries greater risk with its use. Please ask for help and review any resources on our Tool Directory when learning to use the tool. Only operate this tool with confidence.
- Red/Orange labelled tool: The tool DOES require specific training. Misuse of such a tool can result in serious harm and/or damage. Prior to using such a tool you MUST receive training from a DIYode member who is allowed to provide training. Refer below to the Meet the Trainers Tab.
We take safety very seriously, and experience has taught us that some members need encouragement to think safely. Not following the above outlines will result in a three stage repercussion process:
• You will be given a written warning (through email)
• You will have a one month suspension
• You will be barred from the club
It is important to follow the tool training procedure as misuse of a tool may harm you or a bystander. Training is still required even if you have had previous training on the tool or a similar tool elsewhere. There can be no exceptions to training requirements. However, if you are experienced in a craft and would like to share your knowledge please inform the directors so that an arrangement can be made. DIYode is always grateful to have members share their knowledge.
Apart from tool classification DIYode has an inventory of most necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). Including safety glasses, and hearing protection. Safety glasses should be worn while in the shop and hearing protection should be worn when working with loud equipment. Some tools may have their own PPE requirements (i.e. Welding), such requirements will be explained during safety training. Please familiarize yourself with the shop safety facets before beginning a project.
Shop Etiquette and Upkeep Policy
The club is an area for all to use so you must act in a way that respects this.
- Harassment, bullying, discrimination of any sort will not be tolerated in the club.
As a community group everyone is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the workspace.
- You are expected to clean up after yourself when you have finished working.
This includes putting away tools, unplugging equipment, vacuuming dust, and clearing all clutter. A good general rule of thumb is to clean up ‘your mess + 10 %’. This will make sure our shop stays tidy and clean.
Noise Policy
We are located in a relatively industrial area. That being said, before working on a noisy project, please consider those around us.
Training Policy
As a community other members are more than happy to show you how to use a tool or to give advice. Depending on demand for training a group session may be organized or training may occur on an individual basis. Please email (info@diyode.com) or check Events for information on upcoming training events, workshops or to organize one on one training. Individuals who are certified to train the use of a specific tool can be found on the tool directory or through the Meet the Trainers tab below. As a new member we appreciate your eagerness to learn how to use all the tools but please be patient in receiving training. Although members are delighted to show you how to use a tool they have commitments outside of DIYode that they must attend to.
Once training has been completed, a training certificate will be signed by yourself and the trainer and attached to your membership agreement. Additionally, your member profile will reflect your training. Using Red/Orange tools without training will result in a stage of the repercussion process.
Damaged Tool Policy
Stuff happens and tools get damaged, it’s a fact of life. If you have completed the necessary training for a tool and you still damage it through normal use, do not worry. Everyone has broken a tool at some point and it’s okay. The club will support you and cover the repair cost. However, if you damage a tool that requires training and you have not been trained on it, or you were using it in an unusual or unsafe way, you may be liable for the repair cost. There are some important things to note with tool damage. If you damage a tool there are four things you absolutely must do:
- Immediately stop working with the tool. If it is damaged it is dangerous.
- If you are trained to repair the tool than you may repair it.
- If you are unable to repair the tool and you have to leave it make sure to lock it out and to place a warning message on it to prevent another member from using it. Click HERE for instructions on our Lock Out Tag Out System.
- Immediately alert a director that the tool is damaged (info@diyode.com)
Tool Maintenance
Tools are maintained by the shop maintenance committee. Please do not modify or repair tools if you are not certified to do so. If you think a tool needs maintenance contact the committee through slack and inform them or send an email to a director (info@diyode.com). A list of our main tools can be found in the tool directory.
Storage Policy
Our storage policy has its own page. It can be found HERE.
Materials Policy
Members are welcome to use whatever material they wish so long as that material is not extremely dangerous or could potentially damage a tool. DIYode does not permit the use of pallets as they may contain harmful chemicals and metal fragments.
In Case of Injury
In case of an injury please take all necessary measures to ensure safety and well being. The first aid kit is in the washroom. When appropriate please inform the directors of the club.
Borrowing Policy
Having tools or equipment leave the shop is strongly discouraged, but we recognize that sometimes there is great benefit. If you need to take a tool out of the shop, you must clear it with a director first, and you must sign for the tool, and sign again when you return it. Please return tools and equipment as promptly as possible.
Homemade Tools Policy
Homemade tools are strictly prohibited to be used in the shop. If you would like any clarification on this do not hesitate to reach out to a director (info@diyode.com).
Guest Policy
You may bring guests into the shop, but you must be present whenever non-members are present, and be aware that you are responsible for their safety and well-being. Guests are not permitted to use tools marked with a red or orange sticker. Members under the age of 18 are not permitted to host guests in the workshop
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