Terms and Conditions

   WARNING! THIS PAGE IS A LIVING DOCUMENT. NOT ALL AREAS ARE COVERED, BUT MOST ARE - CHECK WITH ANOTHER MEMBER IF THERE ARE ANY QUESTIONS.

HackRVA Terms and Conditions

Membership

Becoming a HackRVA Member

Go here to join - Membership Signup

Being an Active Member

• Paying dues makes someone a member of hackrva.
• The stopping of paying dues stops membership.
• We ask that members contribute to the hackrva community as their time and talents allow. This is a community, not a service.
• The new members area has more info on this - [1]

Billing

• All members are billed monthly starting on the day that they sign up and the same day on each subsequent month going forward.
• All billing is handled via PayPal Subscription.
• We don't use cash billing. Any cash given to us will be happily accepted as a donation, but we only use PayPal for memberships. We know this may not be ideal for some people but in order to stay solvent we've found recurring billing is the best way.

Changing Membership Level

• Membership levels are defined here
• Email us at [email protected] at least 2 weeks prior to the next billing date
• Please try and keep this limited to 1-2 times per year.

Cancelling Membership

Please consider continuing to support us, even if you are not using the space now. Remember that we are all keeping the makerspace alive and thriving in our spare time. We're volunteers instead of a business so please keep that in mind.

• To stop membership, go to PayPal and log into your account. Stop the automatic monthly payment:
  • Go to paypal.com, and log in.
  • In your account activity, click one of the payments to Hackrva Labs, Inc.
  • Click the link Manage Hackrva Labs, Inc payments.
  • Click Cancel.

Your fob will then be deactivated. If you plan to rejoin later, hold on to your fob. It will be reactivated when you start paying.

Makerspace Guidelines

Security

Doors

• Be sure to lock the door if you are the last member to leave. We are working on making all 3 doors automatically lock. That also means you must be sure to keep your keys with you if you go outside!
• Do not make copies of hackrva keys or RFID fobs.

Personal Belongings

• Personal belongings/equipment are left at your own risk. If you forgot something, post on Slack.

Non-Members and Guests in the Makerspace

• Don't bring anyone into the makerspace that you don't wholly trust.
• You are responsible for the actions of your guest while they are at the makerspace.
• Non-members are not allowed to use tools. This is a liability issue. You are responsible for damage they cause.

Housekeeping

• Do not leave any food. We must avoid a roach or mouse problem.
• Return all tools and supplies to where they belong after you are done with them.
• Turn off lights when you leave.
• Do not leave small electronics on, especially things like soldering irons, etc.
• Take out the trash and recycling when it is full.
• Clean up after yourself. There is no staff.
• Anything not in your storage box may be mistaken as donations. Larger projects and items should be labeled with a parking permit to avoid confusion.
• Larger projects and items should not be left at the space without a parking permit.
• Thumbs Up/Down rule on loud music and video.
• Do not make changes or modifications to the building or facilities without clearing it with hack.rva leadership. This includes making holes in the walls larger than a screw hole.
• Do not remove equipment from the space. (There is a project to create a lending library, so those tools are the exception.) Some other smaller tools (owned by hack.rva) may be allowed with permission from hackrva leadership on Slack, for hours, not days.
• If a tool is broken or working improperly, put a Damaged/Broken ticket on it, and contact the channel on Slack so they can assess repairs needed.

Damages

• A member is responsible for any damage done to the space, equipment or other people's belongings done by them or their guests.

Parking Permits

We use a system of tags to mark materials and equipment. Blanks are on the counter in the main room, under the cabinets.

• • Parking Permit (green) This is what a member puts on projects or materials being left 'temporarily' meaning about 2 weeks. It must be filled out with contact information so the owner can be reached. It can be renewed, and as long as you are working on a project, that is generally not a problem.
  • Parking ticket (orange) Anyone who finds things left without a permit, or with a permit over a month old can put a Parking Ticket on it, and try to contact the owner.
  • Up for grabs (blue?) If the owner of the ticketed materials does not respond within 2 weeks, the material is either claimed by Hack.RVA, or tagged with an Up for Grabs ticket. Another member may claim the material. (This may sound extreme, but we have had large furniture sit for a year. We don't have the space.)
  • Broken or Damaged (red) For equipment or tools. Please explain what is wrong, and if possible, how it got that way. On Slack, report it on the appropriate channel so we can fix it. Post a picture of the model number and identifying info so we can easily order parts.

Consumable Supplies

We have some bits, blades, etc. for the tools, but if you want something specific, bring your own. We have a small budget to provide consumables to the space. We supply 'some':

• 3d printer filament
• Self-adhesive vinyl for the small vinyl cutter
• Basic blades for the band saw, table saw
• Sandpaper for belt sanders, etc.
• Trash bags, paper towels, cleaning supplies

If you have extra of something please consider donating. You can donate freely or if you'd like a receipt, go here.

• Screws, Nails, Bolts are welcome
• 3D Printer filament (especially if you plan to use a lot - it may be best to keep your own roll)
• Stock pieces (wood, metal, plastic, etc.)

We do not supply:

• Cups
• Coffee
• Spoons, forks, knives

Events, Workshops, Meetings

• The hackrva schedule is publicly available for all to know at http://www.hackrva.org/blog/calendar/
• It is the members responsibility to be aware of the calendar.
• Free-hack days have been established so that no events are allowed on those days in order to balance the needs of events, workshops, and meetings against individual members who need times to work with out restriction. check the calendar for Free-hack days.
• Use of the any part or all of the space may be restricted because of an event, workshop, or meetings. This is at the discretion of the organizer.
• Disruption of events, workshops, or meetings should be avoided. The organizer will decide what is disruptive and if that activity should stop.
• If you're hosting something, please clean up any mess you make in the Meeting Room
• If you leave something, the people who clean up after you reserve the right to claim and/or trash anything you leave

Guests

• Members are responsible for their guests
  
• Guests are not entitled to storage or access to equipment
  
• Guests should be supervised at all times
  
• Guests that cause disruption can be asked to leave at anytime
  
• Guests are discouraged during schedule events and workshops unless they are there to participate in that specific event or workshop

Photography

• Pictures will be taken at HackRVA and our events. This includes you, guests, and projects.
• You're welcome to decline photos, but don't be offended if someone attempts to take one.
• In general, don't post things to HackRVA Slack, Flickr, Facebook, or any other HackRVA thing that you don't want posted other places.
• We don't do attribution on photos for our blogs or anywhere else unless specifically asked.
• We will remove photos by request.

Minors

HackRVA Policy on Minors

Kids are awesome! HackRVA sponsors many special events that focus on learning for a younger age group, such as Maker Camp and Maker Guild. We also realize the need for safety and clear guidelines regarding minors. We've created this policy to make HackRVA a stronger organization that caters to a diverse set of needs while keeping in mind the limitations of our organization.

Our age guidelines are as follows:

• Saturdays are typically adults only. The exception being a minor focused event held on Saturday, which would be in the description on the calender/meetup page.

• Members should have no more than 2 minors with them at any time unless it is a minor designated event.

• There should be no more than 5 minors at the space at a time unless it is a minor designated event.

• 0-5 years old - Wait until they're older to bring them to the space.

• 6-12 - Welcomed at special "kid-friendly" events only. Must be accompanied by a guardian at those events. The Tech-lab and wood shop are restricted for this age group.

• 13-14 - Welcome to the space anytime with direct adult supervision(except Saturdays). The Tech-lab and wood shop are restricted for this age group.

• 15-17 - Welcome to the space anytime with direct adult supervision(except Saturdays). The Tech-lab is available on a case by case basis with proper training and consistent guardian supervision.

We've also created a guide for young makers in Richmond, see here: Young Makers.

       Kid-Friendly Events       General Use         Tech-lab         Saturdays
         (Makerguild)           (w/ Guardian)      (hackathons)
        (LEGO League, etc.)     (except Saturdays)          
 AGE 
  0-5      NO                       NO                  NO              NO  
 6-12      YES                      NO                  NO              NO
13-14      YES                      YES                 NO              NO
15-17      YES                      YES            case-by-case         NO

Donating

We accept donations by credit/debit card or PayPal via a donation button on our website that links to here. We also accept donations by check in person. Checks must be made out to "HackRVA Labs"

Tools, Materials, In-Kind

At this time we are generally not accepting donations of equipment or materials. This is largely a space issue: the current space is pretty full. Financial contributions are always welcome. If you have something you think we really need for some reason, ask on Slack first. Also, you can offer it on the "UpForGrabs" channel on our Slack account (Online Chat Channel).

If you have any questions, you can ask mailto://[email protected]. And, if you coordinate a drop-off/pick-up exchange on the mailing list, please follow-up on it.

Membership for Donations

HackRVA doesn't trade membership for donations of tools or goods.

Safety

• Please get at least a little training on all wood shop tools. They may seem simple but they are powerful, and there are ways they can hurt you that you may not know.
• If you need training, ask a person in the space or contact the HackRAT's on Slack and we'll coordinate a training opportunity.
• Common Sense rules the day at the makerspace.
• Please do not run with scissors, stick things in electrical sockets, or endanger anyone at any time
• Safety is not just about you. You may be okay with the danger, but you must not endanger other members.

Proper Ventilation

• Please ensure you have proper ventilation when your project needs it. Work outside if fumes are dangerous.
• Aerosol (spray) paint is not allowed inside the space. You can paint outside, but use a drop cloth so your over-spray does not hit walls or pavement. If the paint is warm, and the object is warm, you can paint in the cold and bring it inside to dry.
• Filling the makerspace with fumes and smoke will not earn you friends or cool points.

First Aid

• There is a first aid kit in the makerspace for use when needed

Fire Extinguishers

• There are multiple fire extinguishers in the makerspace, one in each room, 2 in the wood shop.
• Please be familiar with their locations for use when needed
• Please be aware of the areas around the fire extinguishers (marked in red tape). Do NOT leave any objects or furniture within the tape.
• There is a special CO2 extinguisher by the laser cutter. Use only this one for the laser cutter. Other types will destroy the machine.

Damages

• Members are responsible for their guest's damages as well as their own. Guest must not operate any tools or equipment.

Alcohol

In the Makerspace

• We know many of us enjoy a cold beer while hanging out. As long as you're over 21, that's fine.
• HackRVA doesn't (typically) pay for the beer.
• Do not use dangerous tools when you are having a beer. Don't drink and drill! Or use any other power tools.

Intoxication

• Members reserve the right to ask anyone to leave who is intoxicated, high, or not in a fit state to be around heavy machinery.

FAQ-Like-Thing of Additional Information

FAQ:

- I read the above, but, what are you exactly, whats going on?

We're a makerspace/hackerspace(wikipedia). Sometimes we're referred to as a gym for the brain, a clubhouse for nerds, a mad-scientist's lair, or a preeminent basement. We're essentially a space filled with tools, computers, and curious people interested in knowledge and hands-on experience. Members pay dues and that provides the money to keep the space going. We are run by volunteers who are also members. No one owns the space and everyone contributes as they are able to see it flourish. If you're interested in a hobby or subject of knowledge that is technology or "makery" related you will likely find comradery here and a place to work on projects.

- Whats a good way to find out if HackRVA is a good fit for me?

For now, we are not allowing group events. We have a few online meetings on MeetUp. Join our HackRVA Meetup group and watch for a workshop or event that interests you. Some are members only, and others are open to the public. Some are free, and some have a cost. You can contact us at [email protected] for a tour.

- What kinds of stuff are you mostly into?

We are interested in all forms of making. Our members do computer related activities (code, networking, video games, digital creations), electronics, woodworking, metalworking, mechanical stuff, and adjacent nerdery. Tools, craft, code, engineering, science, and invention are at the forefront, but we also enjoy art, design,and all things fabricated and creative. For a complete-ish list, see the bottom of this page.

- I don't know how to use these tools. Will someone teach me?

Yes. We do this through workshops on a fairly regular basis, but more often we do it as a natural part of our community through one-on-one experiences. If you become a member, contribute to our organization, and are around enough to get to know people, someone will train you, show you, help you. Typically people get what they put in. Also, Saturdays are great day to learn tools - there are almost always knowledgeable people around willing to take 20 or 30 minutes to show you the basics. Watching YouTube videos, reading about our tools on our wiki, and being willing to try new things also help and show initiative. The wiki is a great source, although it can often use some updates.

- I've never made anything before. Will I fit in?

Yes and absolutely. Many of our most active members have never made anything before joining HackRVA. Some have since become maker addicts. You've been warned.

- Where are you?

2026 A Dabney Road, Richmond VA 23230. We are in an office park, at the back on the left.

-Do you have open hours for the public?

No. Our members have keys and use the space at their discretion. No one works at HackRVA and we don't keep regular hours like a business. If you'd like to visit, contact us at info [at] hackrva.org and we can arrange for someone show you around.

- Can I donate tools or materials to HackRVA?

Generally, no. We might like something, but we don't have unlimited space. But things like old computers and electronics are not useful enough to store. Contact us at info [at] hackrva.org if you think we would like a donation.

- Can I teach a workshop?

Yes - most workshops are presented by HackRVA members, but we love any opportunity to learn. HackRVA is as much a place to teach as it is to learn, improve skills, and make stuff. Contact us if you'd like to host a workshop. We can do it virtually.

- What about kids?

HackRVA is adult oriented. We have hosted some kid-friendly events in the past, but we have many dangerous machines that we sometimes worry about the adults using them.

- What are the rules of this land?

Complete Details - How being a member works.

- Where do I go to learn lots of other things about HackRVA?

Go to our wiki - its not always complete or up-to-date, but its where we huddle together to digitally organize the space. We've also littered the web with our offerings, most of which can be found by clicking through the links on the right side-bar of this website. For current events, follow us on MeetUp

- Does HackRVA do projects for money for other people?

No. We're not a prototyping business or service.

- Can I invent and prototype something at HackRVA?

Certainly. We do that all the time. Often members are just trying to solve a problem or fix something, but other times they invent something new.

- I'm a professional 'X' looking for a workshop, is HackRVA for me?

Possibly, but expectations should be managed. The place isn't always clean (depending on standards), things get moved a lot, tools break and don't get fixed until a member volunteers to fix them - stuff happens. HackRVA isn't a professional shop. We aspire to ever better tools and organization, but with over a hundred members, things are always changing. On the other hand, we love it when industrial designers, maker-pros, artisans, artists, and other professionals of the maker world join our space. We revel in your shared knowledge and skills. And there are typically enough tools here to make most things with some patience. It's not uncommon for our hardcore makers to keep a personal set of bits and blades around so they know it will work. Or even bring in their own tools.

- Your space isn't giant and there's a lot of people. Do you get crowded?

Typically, no. During the weekdays the space is usualy quiet. Some people come here for a co-working experience as they mash buttons on computers, using our high-speed WiFi. Weekday evenings are often quiet, though we do have regular events you should check on before coming. Saturday afternoons and evenings tend to be busy and and members sign up to reserve a tool or area. (Sign up for the morning to get the place to yourself). In general, we have enough room to do most projects, but we often have to get creative and some work is just best done outside, either because of scale or fumes or heat.