Rules, Policies, and Orientation

Things to Know About Pikes Peak Makerspace

In case of emergency, call 911.

Our physical location is:

735 East Pikes Peak Avenue

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

719-445-MAKE(6253) -- Goes straight to voicemail --

Contact Us: https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/Contact

EIN: 81-0876257

Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

We a collaborative environment composed of Builders, Tinkerers, Engineers, Artists, Entrepreneurs, Designers, and Educators, fostering creativity in the Pikes Peak Region.

PPM provides:

• A facility with space and equipment for creating physical items for fun and education.
• A gathering place for classes and instruction.
• Support for the Colorado Springs startup community.
• Access to shared equipment, tools, and designated work areas.
• A community-driven environment with a commitment to safety and respect.
• Members discounts at select local vendors.

Rules and Policy Changes

These rules and policies are subject to change at any time by the Executive Director or Board of Directors.

Membership Information

Becoming a Member

1) Take a Tour

We strongly recommend taking an on-site tour before taking the membership quiz. This will introduce you to the Pikes Peak Makerspace’s equipment and culture.

2) Choose a membership level from our website that best suits your situation.

Memberships are managed via Join It, where you can register for membership and set up automatic monthly payments through Stripe.

• Monthly membership: $55
• 2-Card Bundle: $75/month
• Student Membership (18 years old minimum): $35/month
• Annual Membership: $605/year (one month free)
• Corporate Memberships: Contact PPM Executive Director -

3) Take our New Member Orientation Quiz.

Passing the quiz with 70% or better is mandatory for all new members. Feel free to take the quiz before signing up if you want to! [Take me to the quiz!] Look out for a confirmation email!

Once you pass the quiz with a 70% or higher, you will receive an email with instructions on scheduling a time to pick up your RFID access card to the building. There is a $10 donation for the RFID card. If you get 100% on the quiz, it is FREE!

Once you have picked up your RFID card, you are free to use the design computers and office printer, and can take certification classes to use the shared tools and work areas.

Certification courses can be found on Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events/

If there is a piece of equipment we have that you wish to be certified on that does not have a class posted on Meetup, please reach out to a staff member or the Board of Directors.

Change or Cancel your Membership

To change your billing details, add a member, or cancel your membership, please reach out to the Membership Manager, Executive Director, or ask for help on Slack. Alternatively, you can login into the CRM and make changes yourself.

Retroactive membership refunds are not permissible.

Pausing Membership

Our monthly dues are designed to be affordable for long term sustaining memberships. A stable financial model allows us to continue investing in the space and plan for the future.

However, should you need to pause your membership, please be aware of the following:

• Certifications will expire?

Lapsed Membership

If your payment bounces for any reason, please login to the CRM or contact a staff member within 4 days to update your billing details. Memberships past due 7 days are subject to removal.

Replacing your RFID Card

Please don’t lose your card. But if you do, notify a staff member or ask on Slack. Replacements are $10.

Member Code of Conduct

1.  Make things, not rules. Don’t be the reason we have to make a rule.

2.  Thoroughly Safe. Always use proper PPE and keep the environment clean. Do not use equipment you are not trained on or comfortable operating. Inspect tools for damage before use, and never be in a rush when making.

3.  Leave it better. After putting away tool and required cleanup tasks, spend 5 minutes improving the space before you go.

4.  See something, say something. Always speak up if you see a tool being misused or someone endangering themselves/others. Report all equipment issues using red tags, Slack, Area Captains, and/or our Executive Director.

5.  Kind Human. Never miss an opportunity to be kind. Unique life experiences and points of view fuel innovation and creates an atmosphere where all Makers feel welcome and included.

If you agree to live up to these expectations, welcome to the family!

Guest Policies

Anyone visiting the space for any reason other than a basic tour must sign the liability waiver at www.bit.ly/ppmwaiver

• This is important for all the below reasons:
  • It communicates that all guests are responsible for their own safety
  • It makes guests consider the "no lifeguard on duty/ swim at your own risk" aspect of the place they are entering
  • It gives us (the member signing them in) an opportunity to talk about safety with the guests

• Guests must accompany a member at all times.
• Guests may not operate equipment unless it is part of a supervised class that is open to the public.
• Frequent guests are encouraged to become members.
• Minors under 18 are not permitted to use tools or be in the space unsupervised.
• Guests may not remain in the space without a keyed member present.
• Members are responsible for their guests’ actions, behavior, and safety.

Minors

1. Minors 18 and under are not eligible for membership nor have an RFID access card to the space.
2. Minors 18 and under are permitted in the space under limited circumstances only and must be accompanied closely by Parent or Legal Guardian at all times.
   • Limited circumstances means PPM-hosted family events, tours, or brief visits.
   • Accompanied closely means visual range generally, and never in the shop near dangerous tools.
3. Parents/Legal Guardians are responsible for their children's actions, behavior, and safety.

Pets and Service Animals

Pets are NOT allowed in common areas of the building. Service animals are exempted.

Equipment Use and Training

• Members must follow all posted operating procedures.
• If equipment is damaged or not functioning properly Use a Red Tag to label the equipment.
  • Report the issue in Slack (#red-tags-issues) or to the Executive Director.
  • Do not attempt unauthorized repairs.
• Do not make alterations or perform major repairs on any equipment without specific permission from the Executive Director.

Certification Classes

Equipment is categorized into different levels based on required training. Members must complete the necessary certification before being granted access:

• Level 1: No training required.
• Level 2: Requires a basic training class.
• Level 3: Requires advanced training and certification.

Certification classes are taught by PPM members and volunteers.

Only members who have completed official PPM training and received certification for Level 2 and Level 3 may use restricted equipment. Due to the hazardous nature of some tools, additional training classes are required at an extra cost to ensure safety and competency. Unauthorized tool use may result in disciplinary action.

Certification schedules are available on Meetup; interested members should visit Meetup to register for the classes and coordinate with area captains.

Expert Checkout

If you are confident in your ability to use a piece of equipment that requires certification, you can reach out to the instructor and request an “expert checkout.”

The class fee is still required, as that funds maintenance and upkeep of the equipment.

Red Tags

• Use a Red Tag, which can be found in the red tag area, to designate the broken equipment.

• Additionally, report the issue in our Slack channel #red-tags-issues

Teach a Class or Host an Event

We rely on Members like you to teach our certifications courses! If you are willing and able to teach a certification course, please let a staff member or Board member know!

• Members are encouraged to propose and host events or classes at PPM.
• All events must be approved by the Executive Director.
• Members can charge for classes, but event fees must be reviewed and approved.
• Event proposals should be submitted to the Executive Director, shared on Slack to gauge interest, or brought up at a Board meeting.

Member Benefits

PPM members enjoy discounts at the following local merchants:

(bring proof of membership)

Company	Website	Benefit	Directions to
	Woodcraft of Colorado Springs	10% discount	4438 Austin Bluffs Parkway
	CO Lumber Specialties	10% discount	3636 Stone Avenue
	GENERAL AIR	10% discount	3031 N Nevada Ave.
	ACE Hardware Uintah Gardens	10% discount	1830 W Uintah Street

Map of stores that provide PPM member discounts

Map of helpful local resources curated by our makers

Paying for Consumables

• Consumables such as wood glue, 3D print filament, blue tape, and sheet stock for the laser engravers are not free.
• Use the QR codes (PayPal) throughout the space, this link www.bit.ly/ppmstuff , or a cash box with a note about what you used paperclipped to the cash.

Building Access and Usage

The facility is accessible 24/7 to members with RFID cards.

Security

You are responsible for your own safety. You are expected to maintain a secure environment for other members.

Recording in Progress

By entering Pikes Peak Makerspace, you consent to be recorded by audio and/or video technology. Recordings may be used for internal and/or external purposes, marketing, or safety review. They may be shared with law enforcement or other third parties as required by law. Please leave the premises immediately if you do not wish to be recorded.

Front Door Security

Use the peep hole!

Do not answer the door unless you are confident the visitor is appropriate and you are capable of handling them.

People may come to the door to ask for money, to use your cellphone, or sell you something.

Be aware that you are responsible for your safety and the security of the building when you open the door.

Packages

Amazon, FedEx, and UPS all use the doorbell to deliver packages.

So if you hear the doorbell, please check the peephole and answer it if you are comfortable.

It is fine to have your supply packages delivered to the Makerspace.

Have your name added to the address label.

Look for your package near the front door.

Don't leave packages (or mail) around for long.

Mail

USPS generally does not use the doorbell, because they have been assigned an RFID card for the PPM doors.

Don't leave mail (or packages) around for long.

Last One Out Rules

After you have cleaned up and you are ready to head out, and you are the last one in the building, you are required to check each of the following. (There is a sign posted on both the front and back door for quick reference.)

Exhaust Fan & Chiller Switch

• All appropriate equipment is powered off

• Shed Door (in South parking lot) is closed and locked

• South Door is closed and locked

• South Overhead Door is closed and locked (BOTH SIDES!)

• Exhaust Fan and Chiller for laser cutters is off (Switch column between laser machines)

• Dust Collection is turned off (CNC Room, Sanding Station, Table Saw). If you can't find the switch, unplug motor.

• East Door closed and locked (Orange tape should be aligned)

• Lights in Woodshop off (Switch located outside of Woodshop doors, right side)

• North Overhead Door is closed and locked (BOTH SIDES!)

• All Appropriate Lights are turned off (There is a bank of switches by the front door)

• Verify the door locks behind you!

Parking at PPM

• Parking at PPM is free for members, guests, and visitors alike. Park on the north and south sides of the building.
• Additional free off-street parking during special events will often be available in the empty lot west of the building.
• There is no reserved parking. As a courtesy, leave close-in spots available for guests or visitors.
• People who do park close-in may be asked to move their vehicles if they are blocking our (2) large overhead doors or our small doors when somebody has stuff to unload.
• Be aware of delivery vehicles (like Amazon, FedEx, UPS, or USPS) in our lots.
• Do not block the alleyway in the back (southeast of the building), the lanes along the sides of our building, or the dumpster(s).
• There is no exterior EV charging available at this time.
• Bicycles are welcome at PPM, can be brought into the building, and can be recharged inside.
• Respect the parking spaces for our immediate neighbor to the east, PikeRide.
• Snow removal for the parking lots is the responsibility of the property manager.
• If there are any issues contact our Executive Director on Slack, who will contact the property owner.

Cleaning Up

• If you notice a trash can getting full, take responsibility for emptying it.
• Trash bags can be found in the bathrooms.
• The garbage dumpster is located outside the South door.
• Recycling is collected in 96 gallon totes (1 of them) and are picked up every two weeks.

Scrap and Trash

Trash day is TUESDAY (Extra pickups can be called from Waste Connections for around $75)

Recycling day is MONDAY (96 gallon tote should be placed out back by the dumpster)

Single Stream Recycling provided by Waste Connections. Paper, cardboard, cans, glass, and one time use plastics.

Empty interior trash cans into our dumpster at the back (south side) of the building.

Always leave the space better than you found it.

Anti-Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Discrimination refers to unfair treatment based on these characteristics. Inappropriate behavior is any conduct that undermines the integrity, safety, or inclusivity of our community.

Reporting Concerns

PPM encourages members to report any incidents of harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate conduct. Members may report concerns in one of the following ways:

1. Anonymous Reporting Form:

Complete our Anonymous Incident/Feedback Report Form. This form can be submitted anonymously or with identifying information. Submissions are sent directly to all current Board of Directors (BOD) members for urgent and confidential review.

2. Direct Reporting Against a Board Member:

Concerns involving a BOD member may be reported to the Executive Director or a trusted BOD member through email, Slack, or in person. The recipient will document the report and communicate it to the remaining BOD members, excluding the accused individual. The BOD will then investigate the matter and address any concerns directly with the accused member.

Response to Concerns

PPM is committed to responding promptly, confidentially, and effectively to all reports:

Urgent Matters:

Reports involving urgent matters, such as those that threaten the safety, well-being, or integrity of the community, will be addressed immediately upon receipt. The Board of Directors (BOD) will convene as soon as possible —ideally within 24 hours of receiving the report—to review the details and take appropriate action.

Immediate actions may include:

• Temporarily restricting participation of the individuals involved pending further review.
• Providing necessary support or resources to impacted members.
• Engaging external professionals or authorities if required.

General Concerns:

For non-urgent concerns, reports will be reviewed within (2) two business days to ensure all issues are addressed appropriately. If the reporting party provides contact information, they will receive an acknowledgment of their report and updates as the situation progresses.

Investigation:

The BOD (excluding the accused if applicable) will thoroughly review all reports, gathering statements and evidence as necessary.

Resolution:

Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings, which may include mediation, disciplinary measures, or other corrective steps to ensure the safety and inclusivity of the community.

Feedback (If Non-Anonymous):

When possible, and if contact information is provided, the reporting party will be informed of the outcome of the review.

Maintaining Confidentiality

All reports will be handled with the highest degree of confidentiality. Information will be shared only with those directly involved in addressing the concern.

Zero Tolerance for Retaliation

PPM strictly prohibits retaliation against any member who reports a concern or participates in an investigation. Retaliatory behavior will result in immediate action by the BOD.

Education and Prevention

PPM recognizes the importance of prevention through education. We provide:

Training for Leadership:

Board members and the Executive Director will receive periodic training on recognizing and addressing harassment.

Member Awareness:

Resources and clear guidelines will be available to all members to ensure understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

Storage Policies

• Members must label stored projects with their name, expected return date, and contact info.
• Green Tag System is required for temporary storage.
• Limited long-term storage options available (please check with staff for availability and payment setup):
  • Blue gym lockers: $10/month
  • Rollable clear tote storage: $20/month
  • Woodshed XL storage: $10 for 7 days
• Unlabeled or abandoned items may be trashed, removed, or reassigned.
• Material Storage for Lasers
  • Material can be stored in the rack nearest the Zing laser
  • If a member wishes to store their material in the rack then they must label each piece with their name, contact information, and date on blue tape.
  • Any material that has no such label, has a label with no date or a date past 90 days is available to any member for use at their discretion.

Computers and Personal Devices

The computer login information and Wi-Fi network credentials can be found on white boards in the space. [On the right of the FIRST AID Supply Cabinet]

Login Password: [on small laminated sign on white board just to the left of the FIRST AID Supply Cabinet]

PPM Computer Rules

• Members are not given personal logins or passwords.
• Backup work on an external storage device.
• Do not leave any messes in any workspace (anything without a name can be tossed or relocated to lost and found).

Shared Network Drive

This shared drive is visible to all members.

0. If you need security, do not use this drive.

1. Files might be removed automatically after 2 months.

2. Do not store files in the main folder directory.

3. Keep your own backup! We are not responsible if your data becomes lost or corrupted in any way

• The s:/ drive is a shared network drive available on all PPM computers.
• You can also access the shared network drive from computers you bring into PPM.
• All you need to do to enjoy it is create a folder for yourself in the drive!

Safety First

Members must know the following information:

In case of emergency, call 911.

Our physical location is:

735 East Pikes Peak Avenue

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

use this when ordering pizza or an ambulance

• 

  IN CASE OF
  EMERGENCY
  sign

PPM Fire Escape Plan

Fire Escape Plan maps are posted throughout the Makerspace.

There are 7 fire extinguishers on the fire escape plan map. Review the PPM Fire Escape Plan for locations.

• 

  PPM Emergency
  Evacuation Plan.pdf

• 

  PPM Fire
  Prevention Plan.pdf

• 

  PPM Fire Escape
  Plan

First Aid

There is a FIRST AID Supply Cabinet in our Kitchen Area.

FIRST AID Kits are available in four areas: the Kitchen, Metal Shop, Wood Shop and CNC Room.

• 

  FIRST AID
  Supply Cabinet

• 

  FIRST AID
  Kit

Eye Wash Stations

Emergency Eye & Face Wash Stations are mounted in four areas: the Kitchen, Wood Shop, CNC Room and Vented Room.

• 

  Emergency
  Eye & Face Wash
  Station

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear protective equipment in all Wood and Metal Shop Areas.

Wear gloves when using Isopropyl Alcohol and other cleaners.

• 

  Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hazardous Chemicals

All hazardous chemicals must be stored in the yellow hazardous chemical storage cabinet located in the Vented Room.

Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) information of unknown products before use.

SDS information is available via the QR code on the hazardous chemical storage cabinet or this spreadsheet.

Do not bring dangerous chemicals to the makerspace.

Spray paint, stains, and other approved items must be stored in the hazardous chemical storage cabinet in the Vented Room.

Please DO NOT paint indoors.

• 

  Flammables Cabinet
  in the Vented Room

Impairment

The use of PPM equipment requires you to be alert, attentive, and focused.

Do not use any PPM work area, or any PPM tools, if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Reporting Injuries

• Report every injury, and every near miss: Anonymous Feedback & Incident Report Form

Final Notes

• Always leave the space better than you found it.
• Engage in the community and contribute positively to the makerspace experience.
• Commercial production may be restricted if it interferes with other members’ use of equipment.
• Members should review policies regularly as updates may be implemented at any time.
• For further information, visit the PPM Wiki or contact the Executive Director via Slack.
• Fire escape plan maps posted throughout the facility for emergency preparedness.