Principles of Use

Overview

Welcome to Merri Community Shed

MerriCS is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run community workshop based in Coburg. Like a Men’s Shed—but for everyone—we provide inclusive, hands-on programs that promote social connection, skill-building, and mental wellbeing through woodworking, woodturning, metalwork, blacksmithing/forge work, electronics, sewing, gardening, crafts, and creative projects.

We’re a community of makers, thinkers, fixers, learners, and friends. This Induction Handbook introduces how we work, how we stay safe, and how we support one another.

At the core of our purpose is to provide a space where we all have fun, feel safe, learn new skills, meet new people and upcycle materials to create something new. 

 

1. Purpose of This Induction

This induction ensures that all MerriCS members and volunteers:

• Understand their roles and responsibilities.
• Are aware of safety practices and procedures.
• Know how to report hazards or incidents.
• Feel welcomed and confident in their participation.

 

2. Who We Are

MerriCS is operated by a Committee of Management, made up of elected volunteers. While we currently have no paid staff, we all share responsibility for creating a safe and respectful space.

We are committed to operating in line with community safety principles and complying with relevant Work Health and Safety (WHS) expectations for volunteer-based organisations. We also work closely with Merri-bek City Council, using their contractors for infrastructure works and operating within their broader governance framework.

 

3. Our Shared Responsibilities

Everyone at MerriCS plays a part in keeping the shed safe, functional, and welcoming.

As a participant, you agree to:

• Enjoy the experience, learn new skills, make new friends and spread the word.
• Follow all shed safety guidelines and induction procedures.
• Use equipment only after receiving appropriate instruction.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required.
• Report hazards, near misses, or incidents.
• Treat others with respect and kindness.
• Keep the workspace clean and orderly. Clean the filters, empty the dust extractor bag and vacuums at the end of each session. Return tools and charge batteries after use.
• Clean each machine after EVERY use, unless the next person or a Leader advises otherwise

Respect for Beliefs and Identity

Please respect everyone’s identity, political views, and religious beliefs by not debating, campaigning for, or promoting these opinions within the shed.

We understand that conversations about current affairs and personal experiences will naturally occur, and we welcome open dialogue. However, as this is a neutral and inclusive environment, we ask that discussions remain respectful and considerate so that everyone feels safe and valued.

In short, we draw the line at activism or campaigning, while encouraging friendly and constructive conversation.

The Committee agrees to:

• Maintain the shed as a fun, safe and inclusive space.
• Provide induction and training for all new members.
• Monitor and respond to safety issues raised by members.
• Maintain insurance, equipment, and emergency readiness.

 

4. Site Safety Overview

Location: 19 Harding Street, Coburg VIC 3058

Emergency contacts are available on our website. Alternatively, save the contact details of at least one Committee member or Leader in your phone upon joining.

Emergency Muster Point: Front grass verge near main gate.

First Aid Kits:
– Beside the front door
– In the kitchen beside the door
– At the end of the bar
– On the wall beside the Committee room/Ladies change room door between the wood lathes

AEDs (Defibrillators):
– Beside the front door
– Next to the door to the metalwork room

Toilet Facilities – Unisex:

Our toilets are unisex. Anyone may use either of the two toilet facilities (previously labelled male and female).

Please respect others’ privacy and comfort when using these shared spaces.

 

Kitchen:

Please keep the kitchen tidy and clean, wash up after use. Tea and coffee are available — please help yourself.

Sometimes there are biscuits in the cupboard. If you prefer something we don’t have, please let a Leader know or feel free to bring it in.  There are soft drinks in the fridge for a small fee.

There is a KFL across from the car park for additional supplies.

 

Lockers and Project Storeroom:

It’s not always convenient to take your projects home. We have a storeroom at the end of the passageway, past the old men’s toilets, where you may leave projects between sessions.

• Labelling: Label all pieces and components with your name, date, and phone number (masking tape and pen provided).
• Respect these labels — many members purchase their own materials, and we don’t want them damaged or removed without the owner’s knowledge.
• Lockers: Limited lockers are available for members. Place your items in a locker and take the key with you. Once you remove your items, leave the key in the lock for the next person.
• Glue-ups: Materials that are being glued and clamped may be left on the workbenches until the next session. Please ensure its labelled with your name.  At the beginning of the following session, a Leader will de-clamp it and place your project in the storeroom.  The workbench space maybe required for another member.
• Please keep access areas clear of rubbish, projects and obstacles.

Common Hazards:
– Power tools and machinery
– Slippery surfaces
– Trip hazards (cords, offcuts, debris)
– Chemical products (glues, oils, paints)
– Noise exposure
– Manual handling
– Dust
– Burns from hot metal and forge work
– Welding fumes and sparks
– Needle injuries (industrial sewing machine(s))
– Electrical risks (electronics area)
– Public safety risks during craft market events

 

5. Equipment and Tool Use

Before using any equipment:

• You must be inducted and deemed competent by a Leader or experienced member.
• PPE must be worn as advised (eye protection, ear protection, gloves, dust masks).
• Tools must be returned clean and in good condition.
• Report any damage or faults immediately.

Some areas and machines require additional specialist induction before use:

Area	Induction Required
Woodworking	Yes – table saw, bandsaw, thicknesser etc
Woodturning	Yes – lathe training required
Metalwork	Yes – grinding and welding
Blacksmithing / Forge	Yes – forge-specific induction
Electronics	No, but recommended
Sewing Machine	Yes – industrial sewing machine induction
Craft Market	No, but there is a pre-event-day briefing

 

6. Incident Reporting

If an incident, injury, or near miss occurs:
1. Ensure the area is safe and provide first aid if needed.
2. Notify a committee member or Session Leader as soon as possible.
3. Complete the MerriCS Incident Report Form.

All reports are logged and reviewed. Serious incidents will be investigated and, if required, reported to authorities.

 

7. Risk Management

MerriCS maintains a Safety Risk Register that identifies hazards and the measures in place to control them. Each area and high-risk machine has its own safety documentation and induction process.

Examples include:
– Dust control systems
– Overhead cable and ducting management
– PPE availability
– Chemical and flammable storage protocols
– Area-specific safety guides and machine induction sheets
– Public event management plans for craft markets

We regularly review our risks and update procedures to keep our space safe and functional.

 

8. Psychosocial Safety

We are committed to protecting the mental and emotional wellbeing of all members. This includes:
– Promoting a culture of inclusion and respect.
– Taking reports of bullying or harassment seriously.
– Providing informal peer support and referral pathways.
– Ensuring nobody is pressured to perform tasks beyond their ability or comfort.

 

9. Your Voice Matters

If you notice a safety concern or have suggestions for improving our shed, speak up!
– Raise it directly with a committee member or Session Leader.
– Email: contact@merrics.org.au
– Join a sub-committee or contribute to policy development.

We encourage everyone to take an active role in shaping our shared space. We have ambitions to do new things, run more programs and/or sessions, help more of our community and to achieve these goals, we need your support, your ideas and maybe some of your time (if its available).  We want this space to be as important to you as it is for us.

 

10. Craft Market Safety and Operations

MerriCS holds a quarterly community craft market, welcoming local makers and the public to our space. These events involve additional safety considerations, including public safety, cash handling, and food preparation.

Volunteer Expectations:

• Follow directions from the Market Coordinator or Committee members.
• Wear appropriate identification such as a hi-vis vest or a badge.
• Be alert for hazards such as trip risks, crowd congestion, or weather-related issues.
• Report any incidents or safety concerns immediately.

Key Safety Considerations:

• Public Safety: Keep walkways clear and manage queues calmly.
• Stallholder Safety: Ensure stalls are set up securely and electrical cords are tagged and protected.
• BBQ Operation: Only inducted volunteers may operate the BBQ; follow the BBQ safety sheet.
• Cash Handling: Follow cash safety procedures and always keep money secure.

11. Acknowledgement

I have read and understood the MerriCS Induction Handbook. I understand my responsibilities and agree to follow safety and community guidelines while participating at MerriCS.

I understand that some areas and machines require specialist induction before use and agree not to use these areas or machines without proper training and sign-off.