Visiting the Hackspace premises or using Hackspace facilities while no other persons over the age of 18 are present constitutes lone working. Lone working should be avoided where practical, as this significantly amplifies the level of risk associated with any action.
Members may bring guests with them to the Hackspace. Members accompanied by a guest over the age of 18 are not considered to be lone working.
Any person lone working at the Hackspace must:
Ensure they are aware when they are lone working, even if this was not the case upon arrival.
Be familiar with the location and use of first aid equipment provided.
Keep a means of seeking help (such as a mobile phone) charged and on their person.
Assess the risks involved with any task prior to starting it; defer any tasks unsuitable for lone working until other persons are present.
Never attempt any manual handling tasks outside of a safe one-person operation.
Never use any fixed power woodworking or metalworking machinery (meaning floor standing or benchtop equipment such as a lathe, table saw, or bench grinder), or other equipment deemed unsuitable for lone working.
In addition, it is good practice to:
Establish a check-in system with a trusted person (such as a friend or family member) who can alert the emergency services on your behalf. Make them aware of your visit and the location of the Hackspace, and check-in at agreed intervals as well as upon leaving the premises safely.
Consider your own personal security; avoid opening the door to people you do not know, and be aware of your surroundings when departing the building.
Inform other members of your departure if this will leave them lone working.