All members are trained on our machines and our shop is always staffed with experts.
1. Machines can only be operated by woodworkers who have taken safety training, unless in a class setting.
2. Protective eyewear must be worn at all times.
3. Hearing protection is strongly recommended with higher decibel machines.
4. Loose clothing must be secured. No scarves, hoodie strings, loose long sleeves or jewelry.
5. Long hair must be tied back.
6. Open-toed shoes are prohibited.
7. Dust masks are strongly recommended when working with MDF or machines that create fine dust.
8. Check your surroundings. Make sure you have a clear workspace and the floor is clear.
9. Limit phone usage in the Machine Room.
10. Machines can only be operated by woodworkers who have taken our Machine Safety Training.
11. Outside wood or material needs to be looked over by the Shop Manager prior to use.
12. If a machine is malfunctioning, place a red status block onto it and report it to Shop Staff.
13. Make sure all saws come to a complete stop before you walk away or turn your back.
14. Unplug or use a secondary safety switch when you need to get your hands around the blade.
1. Treat each other with kindness and respect.
2. This is a place of learning and fellowship.
3. Always keep a tidy workspace.
4. Leave it better than you found it.
5. If someone is using a machine you want, write your name on the corresponding whiteboard so they know to let you know when they’re finished.
6. Ask Shop Staff for assistance in purchasing lumber and other materials.
7. Label anything you bring into the Shop with your name.
8. A green status block means a machine is open and available.
9. Always place it on the machine when you’re finished.
10. A yellow status block means that machine is currently being used but the user had to briefly step away. Use this if you need to step away for just a few minutes.
11. A red status block means that the machine is out of order. Place this on any machine that is malfunctioning and notify Shop Staff.
Saratoga Joinery does not provide finish to our members. We encourage members to finish their projects at home, but if that’s not feasible, the following guidelines must be followed:
• All finishes must be no or low VOC (volatile organic compounds).
• Finishes generally allowed include wipe on oils, water-based finishes, waxes, shellac, and milk paint, or blends of these finishes.
• Spray finish is not allowed.
• Finishes cannot be stored at the Joinery; you may bring a finish with you, but it must leave with you.
• Finishes containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are prohibited.
• All oily rags or materials with finish on them must be disposed of properly in the red steel trash bin in the Bench Room.
Saratoga Joinery is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and relies upon the support of the community to keep our blades spinning.
