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Safety & Rules

Safety comes first. These rules apply to all FRC/robotics spaces, equipment, and systems and align with OSHA 29 CFR 1910 (general industry). Adapt local regulatory references (e.g., state/provincial equivalents) as needed.

General responsibilities​

  • Follow posted procedures and signage; if something looks unsafe, stop and escalate.
  • Complete required training before using a tool or chemical; operate only what you are authorized to use.
  • Keep work areas clean; no food/drink near electronics or machinery; keep exits and aisles clear.
  • Report hazards, near-misses, and incidents immediately to leads.

Lab and shop safety​

  • PPE (OSHA 1910 Subpart I): Safety glasses in build/test areas; hearing protection for loud tools; gloves only when appropriate—never with rotating tools; closed-toe shoes required.
  • Tools and machinery (OSHA 1910.212): Perform pre-use checks, secure workpieces, use guards/clamps, and never bypass interlocks.
  • Housekeeping: Keep egress paths clear; coil cords/hoses; clean debris after use.
  • Visitors: Escort and brief guests; restrict access to hazardous zones; provide eye protection where needed.

Electrical and battery safety​

  • Power (OSHA 1910 Subpart S / LOTO 1910.147): De-energize before servicing; lockout/tagout when applicable; use proper fuses/breakers; no energized work without lead approval and PPE.
  • Wiring: No exposed conductors; strain relief and insulation on all harnesses; label polarity and connectors.
  • Batteries: Use approved chargers; charge in supervised/ventilated areas on nonflammable surfaces; isolate damaged/swollen cells, bag and tag for proper disposal.
  • ESD: Use mats/wrist straps for sensitive components; handle PCBs by edges.

Chemical and material handling​

  • HazCom (OSHA 1910.1200) and local Right-to-Know: Label all containers; keep SDS accessible; use required PPE and ventilation.
  • Store flammables/solvents in approved cabinets; separate oxidizers/flammables.
  • Dispose of chemicals, oils, and solvents via approved waste streams only—no sinks or trash.

Data, security, and confidentiality​

  • Respect data classifications; do not store sensitive data in personal drives.
  • Use strong auth and required encryption for repos, CI, and devices.
  • Keep internal docs, designs, and IP within approved systems; follow release/PR review policy.

Access and authorization​

  • Badge-access spaces: No tailgating; challenge unknown entrants.
  • Shared assets: Check in/out loaner equipment; log who has what and when it is due back.
  • Lock tools/chemicals in designated storage when not supervised.

Incident response​

  • People first: Call emergency services (911) if needed; then notify internal leads/oncall.
  • Secure the area, preserve evidence when safe, and file an incident report with timeline and actions (who/what/where/when).
  • Follow the Incident Playbook for contacts and reporting.

Enforcement and updates​

  • Violations may result in loss of access; repeat or severe cases escalate to leadership.
  • Review and update this page at least quarterly; note the DRI and change log here.
  • Annual training refreshers are required for shop access; refresh LOTO/chemical/PPE training as regulations or equipment change.

References​

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910 (general industry), including Subpart I (PPE), Subpart O (machine guarding), Subpart S (electrical), 1910.147 (lockout/tagout), 1910.1200 (HazCom).
  • Local safety regulations (state/provincial Right-to-Know equivalents), labeling, and SDS access requirements.