The process for getting the laser cutter induction:
- Become a member of So Make It.
- Request the laser induction on Slack in the #laser-cutter channel
- Wait for contact from a volunteer Laser Superuser who will arrange to carry out the induction.
There is a £20 upfront fee for the Laser Cutter Induction. This allows us to build up a war chest of funds for inevitable part replacement in the future.
We are also charging £9 per hour of laser time; this nicely works out at 15p a min. We are running this on an honour system the same as the 3d printers; you can pay the fees in cash, pay by Sumup with one of the QR codes, or make a bank transfer with the reference ‘laser’.
More info about the laser cutter itself on the Wiki.
Please read the Risk Assessment below
| Date of Assessment | 01/10/21 | Version | 1.0 |
| Activity | Cutting wood and plastic on the Laser Cutter | ||
| Equipment | HPC LS1290 | ||
| Details of activity | |||
| Induction / Role Required | Laser Training Required | ||
| Form completed by | Chris Nash |
- This risk assessment is intended to provide guidance on the risk associated with the above equipment and activities in normal use.
- Please also check general risk assessments for the area within which this equipment or activity is based.
- Any discrepancies, errors or concerns should be raised with the document authors, area specialists (e.g. admins, superusers) or trustees.
Understanding Risk Rating:
| Risk Rating | Action |
| LOW | Ensure current control measures are in place and continue with activity |
| MED | Control measures may be adequate, co-supervision is recommended |
| HIGH | Do not undertake activity without further consultation with area specialists |
Risk Assessment
| Identify Hazards | Who may be harmed and how | Severity | Control Measures | Likelihood | Risk Rating |
| Something with the potential to cause harm | Users, bystanders or particular at risk groups | Low / Medium / High | What is in place to reduce the harm or likelihood. | Low / Medium / High | |
| Potential Fire Risk | All users | HIGH | All members must receive the induction from a designated laser superuser in order to understand how to use the machine safely. Training is provided to demonstrate which materials are safe to cut on the laser. The Laser Cutter Manual is accessible to provide a list of which materials are safe to cut on the laser. Signage is provided for the correct settings to use on the laser in order to minimise fire risk. The laser log is provided for the correct settings to use on the laser in order to minimise fire risk. The laser is never left unattended whilst in use. A checklist is provided on the laser that users must follow with every use that includes checking fire prevention measures are present. Fire extinguisher and fire blanket are located next to the laser as well as a supply of water. The laser is regularly cleaned and maintained by the laser team. Members are encouraged to seek advice from the laser trainers for anything they are unsure about. | MED | HIGH |
| Creation and inhalation of harmful fumes/gases | Users in workshop | HIGH | Extractor is fitted to laser cutter. The laser induction includes demonstration of using the extractor every time the laser cutter is used. There is signage to remind users to switch on the extractor The extraction system including all ducting is checked annually | LOW | MED |
| User misuse or damage | All users | HIGH | All members must receive the laser induction from a designated laser superuser in order to understand how to use the machine safely. A checklist is provided on the laser that users must follow with every use. There is clear signage to show that this machine should not be used by untrained members. There is clear signage to show what should and should not be cut with the laser and the consequences of misuse. There is clear signage that the laser cutter should not be hacked by any member. Any incidents of possible failure to follow correct procedure are dealt with promptly and effectively by trustees. | LOW | MED |