A well-run shop depends on clear expectations, consistent standards, and mutual respect for the space, the tools, and the people using them. This page outlines the general shop rules, hours of operation, and important details for anyone working in or visiting the Old Line Woodcraft shop.

These guidelines exist to ensure safety, efficiency, and a professional environment for all.

Hours of Operation

Regular Shop Hours

• Days: Monday - Friday

• Time: 9am - 9pm

Limited / After-Hours Access

• Available to: Wood Club Members

• Conditions: Members must make an appointment to gain after-hours access.

Holiday Closures

• Old Line Woodcraft and Wood Club observes all Federal Holidays.

All shop access outside of posted hours must be approved in advance.

General Shop Access

Who May Use the Shop

• Wood Club Members, Staff, Guests (with Staff permission)

Sign-In / Check-In Requirements

• All members must check in with the front desk or make an appointment to use the wood shop.

Guests and Visitors

• All guests must be approved by the Wood Shop manager prior to having access to the shop.

Unauthorized access to the shop or equipment is strictly prohibited.

Core Shop Rules

These rules apply to all individuals, regardless of experience level.

1. Safety First — Always

• Required personal protective equipment (PPE):

  • Eye Protection, Hearing Protection, Respiratory Protection

• Loose clothing, jewelry, and distractions are not permitted near machinery

• No operating tools while fatigued, impaired, or distracted

If you are unsure about a process or setup, stop and ask.

2. Equipment Use and Authorization

• Equipment may only be used by individuals who are:

  • Certified through Safety Training to use the equipment.

• Follow posted operating procedures for each machine

• Never bypass guards, safety devices, or interlocks

• Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment immediately

Unauthorized or improper equipment use may result in loss of shop privileges.

3. Clean-As-You-Go Policy

The shop operates on a CLEAN-AS-YOU-GO standard.

Users are expected to:

• Clear tools and materials after each task

• Sweep and vacuum work areas as needed

• Remove scrap, offcuts, and waste promptly

• Return tools to designated storage locations

The shop should be left cleaner than you found it.

4. Material Handling and Storage

• Personal tools and materials must be:

  • Clearly labeled with First Name and Last Name and stored in your assigned storage area or personal locker.

• Shared materials must be used responsibly

• Do not remove materials from the shop without authorization

• Scrap policies: All scrap material should be discarded in the marked Scrap Bins located throughout the shop. ALL metal, screws, nails or other non-wood material must be removed from scrap prior to it being discarded.

Improper storage creates safety hazards and workflow issues.

5. Tool Care and Responsibility

• Inspect tools before use

• Do not use damaged or dull tools

• Clean tools after use

• Notify staff of maintenance issues

Respect for tools ensures safety and longevity.

Behavior and Professional Conduct

The shop is a shared professional environment.

Expected conduct includes:

• Respectful communication

• Awareness of others working nearby

• No horseplay, distractions, or unsafe behavior

• Compliance with staff instructions at all times

Failure to maintain professional conduct may result in disciplinary action.

Food, Drink, and Personal Items

• Food: All food should remain in the lounge at all times.

• Drinks: Drinks are permitted on a limited basis and should not be left near machinery.

• NO ALCOHOL IS PERMITTED IN THE SHOP AT ANY TIME

• Storage of personal items: If you need storage, speak with the Shop Manager and they can either arrange to provide storage or assign you a locker as needed.

Food and drink are never permitted near machinery unless explicitly allowed.

Emergency Procedures

Emergency Stops and Power Shutoff

• Locations: Emergency Stops and Power Shutoffs are located at each workstation.

First Aid

• First aid kits located at: Shop Managers Office

Fire Safety

• Fire extinguishers located at: Throughout the Shop and Managers Office

• Evacuation routes posted near the shop entrance and exits

All incidents, injuries, or near-misses must be reported immediately.

Enforcement and Accountability

Shop rules are enforced to protect:

• People

• Equipment

• The facility

• The quality of work produced

Violations may result in:

• Verbal warning

• Temporary suspension of shop access

• Permanent loss of privileges, depending on severity

A Shared Responsibility

A safe, clean, and professional shop does not happen by accident. It requires participation from everyone who uses the space.

These rules exist to create an environment where:

• Craftsmanship thrives

• Safety is never compromised

• Respect for the space and each other is standard

Thank you for helping maintain the standards that define Old Line Woodcraft.