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RDF Lab

Rules and Safety Procedures for the RDF Lab

The RDF Lab, part of the School of Architecture at FIU, provides a resource-rich environment for innovation in robotics and digital manufacturing. To ensure a safe and productive workspace, all users are required to adhere to the following rules and safety guidelines.

General Rules

  1. Mandatory Forms: All students MUST sign a release waiver and liability form before operating ANY equipment.
  2. Training & Authorization: Proper training and authorization must take place before operating equipment.
  3. Clean Desk Policy: Remove all personal items, put all tools back, and clean your work area at the end of each day.
  4. Respect: Keep a safe, friendly, respectful, and professional working environment :)

Safety Guidelines

Food and Drink

  • No Food: Food is not allowed in the lab.
  • No Open Drink Containers: Only sealed drink containers are allowed and should be kept away from all machinery and equipment.

Equipment Use

  • Pause for Adjustments: Always stop machines while making adjustments, measuring, or cleaning.
  • Cleanup: All users MUST clean up their individual workspace before they leave.
  • Follow Manuals & Instructions: Always comply with the equipment operation manual and any instructions from the Lab Manager.
  • No 3D Printing Without Approval: All 3D print jobs must be approved by the Lab Manager and logged prior to printing.
  • Robot Workcells: DO NOT ENTER robot workcells. Access is for authorized personnel only.
  • Safety Equipment: Appropriate safety equipment (check machine-specific operation) must be used when operating equipment.
  • No Loose Clothing: Ensure that you are not wearing loose clothing that could get caught in machinery.
  • Tie Long Hair: Make sure long hair is tied back.
  • No Jewelry or Accessories: Remove any hanging jewelry or accessories.
  • No Headphones: Headphones are not allowed for safety reasons.

Reporting and Assistance

  • Report Malfunctions: If you notice any equipment malfunctions, please report them immediately to the Lab Manager via email at lpacheco@fiu.edu.
  • Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for help early and often— we are here to assist you.

Other Guidelines

  • Personal Music & Calls: Please use headphones for personal music, conference calls, etc.
  • Respect Others’ Projects: Be respectful of other people’s equipment, projects, etc.
  • Log machine use: Log machine usage in the timesheet.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can maintain a safe, efficient, and friendly working environment for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation.