# Community



# Code of Conduct

Accepted: 4.01.2024, Updated 9.24.2026

These rules and policies are subject to change. Changes will become effective immediately upon successful vote of adoption by the Board of Directors.

## Core Values

Protohaven supports a maker space that values:

**Inclusion:** We strive to create an environment where all feel welcome and are treated with dignity and respect.

**Empowerment:** We share our knowledge, resources, tools, and space to build the capacity of others.

**Collaboration:** We foster a shared learning environment that offers various levels of engagement to honor the creative aspirations of everyone.

## Community Guidelines

We ask that our members:

**Be Respectful:** Our students, members, instructors, Shop Techs, and partners bring with them a rich variety of experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. What brings us together is a shared interest in the process of making things. To create a welcoming, supportive environment, we ask each individual to treat one another with care and openness to diversity of race, gender, orientation, age, identity, and ability.

**Take Responsibility:** Protohaven is built around shared resources – space, tools, knowledge, and the community itself. To preserve these communal assets, each individual is asked to take responsibility for their own actions and to be mindful of how they impact those around them. We are each accountable for ourselves, and don’t expect others to bear the costs of our actions.

**Help Out:** Protohaven is a public charity and is made possible only by people giving more than they take. In this spirit, we ask each individual to find opportunities to help each other, the organization, and our broader community. We also ask each individual to recognize that assistance is not always sought, to seek consent before providing aid, and to provide opportunity for others’ work and discovery.

## Safety Rules

Report all injuries and incidents:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-immediately-report-a">- <div class="li">Immediately report all accidents, injuries, or incidents to the nearest Protohaven Shop Tech or Instructor.</div>
- <div class="li">Immediately discontinue use of the tool(s) or equipment if it becomes unsafe, damaged, or is not working properly. Notify the nearest Protohaven Shop Tech.</div>

</div>Safe conduct:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-use-the-space-and-eq">- <div class="li">Use the space and equipment safely and leave the space and equipment in clean and working condition.</div>
- <div class="li">Work and behave in a way that protects your own safety and the safety of others.</div>
- <div class="li">Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.</div>
- <div class="li">Ask for help when you are uncertain how to use equipment.</div>

</div>Prepare:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-safety-is-your-top-p">- <div class="li">Safety is your top priority when using the makerspace. If you are not sure what to do, ask.</div>
- <div class="li">Be aware of locations of emergency exits, first aid, fire, and safety equipment.</div>
- <div class="li">Never use a tool unless you have been trained to use it safely and have received the appropriate clearance(s).</div>
- <div class="li">Use a step stool to reach extension cords or tools which are out of reach. Do not climb on tables or chairs to reach for something.</div>
- <div class="li">Do not work when tired, in a hurry, or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other judgment-altering substances.</div>
- <div class="li">Do not cause a distraction, fool around, or startle anyone while either one of you is using a tool or equipment.</div>
- <div class="li">Use protective gear and dress right.</div>
- <div class="li">Do not wear loose-fitting clothing around moving or rotating machinery.</div>
- <div class="li">Remove ties, jewelry, lanyards, etc., especially around moving or rotating machinery.</div>
- <div class="li">Tie back long hair.</div>
- <div class="li">Wear suitable gloves when handling hot objects or sharp-edged items. Do not wear gloves around spinning equipment.</div>
- <div class="li">Wear goggles where deemed necessary.</div>
- <div class="li">Wear appropriate ear protection when using or around loud equipment.</div>
- <div class="li">Obey special machine guidelines when available.</div>

</div>Use tools correctly:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-use-tools-how-they-a">- <div class="li">Use tools how they are designed to be used.</div>
- <div class="li">Never use a broken tool. Report any broken tools or machinery to a Protohaven Shop Tech immediately.</div>
- <div class="li">Do not remove tools from Protohaven premises.</div>
- <div class="li">Never walk away from a tool that is still on or spinning down.</div>
- <div class="li">Never tamper with a tool’s safety features. Operate machinery according to recommended procedures and with safety guards in place, as applicable.</div>
- <div class="li">Do not modify Protohaven tools or equipment unless you have received approval from Protohaven staff or leadership to do so.</div>

</div>Clean up:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-clean-up-after-yours">- <div class="li">Clean up after yourself; leave the area clean and tidy.</div>
- <div class="li">Clean and return all tools to where you got them.</div>
- <div class="li">Shut off and unplug machines when cleaning.</div>
- <div class="li">Never use a rag near moving machinery.</div>
- <div class="li">Use a brush, hook, or a special tool to remove chips, shavings, etc., from the work area. Never use your hands.</div>
- <div class="li">Keep fingers clear of the point of operation of machines by using special tools or devices, such as push sticks, hooks, pliers, etc.</div>
- <div class="li">Keep the floor around machinery clean, dry, and free from trip hazards.</div>
- <div class="li">Clean up spills immediately and put a chair or cone over them if they are wet enough to cause someone to slip.</div>

</div>## Non-Discrimination Policy

Protohaven does not promote or discriminate against any person, population group, or organization with regard to categories protected by applicable United States law. These include, but are not limited to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, physical appearance, language, education background, national origin, age, disability, and veteran status.

## Anti-Harassment Policy

Harassment is prohibited and will not be tolerated. Any person who feels they have been the victim of harassment should ask the harasser to cease the behavior if they feel safe doing so. Members or guests asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately. Harassment includes the following, without limitation:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-offensive-comments-r">- <div class="li">Offensive comments related to race, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, or physical appearance</div>
- <div class="li">Gratuitous sexual or obscene images or behavior</div>
- <div class="li">Unwelcome physical contact or sexual attention without consent or after a request to stop</div>
- <div class="li">Threats or incitement of violence towards any individual, including encouraging a person to engage in self-harm</div>
- <div class="li">Deliberate intimidation by words, gestures, body language, or menacing behavior</div>
- <div class="li">Stalking</div>
- <div class="li">Harassing photography or recording, including logging online activity for harassment purposes</div>
- <div class="li">Continued one-on-one contact or communication after requests to cease</div>
- <div class="li">Deliberate “outing” of a sensitive aspect of a person’s identity without their consent</div>
- <div class="li">Deliberate misgendering. This includes deadnaming or persistently using a pronoun that does not correctly reflect a person's gender identity</div>

</div>## Formal Complaints

The[ Formal Complaint &amp; Concern Policy](https://wiki.protohaven.org/books/policies/page/formal-complaint-concern-policy) establishes a clear, consistent, and confidential way for members &amp; volunteers to raise concerns or complaints and sets forth a process by which Protohaven staff and Protohaven’s Board of Directors are to respond. It is intended to ensure that serious matters involving policy violations, member conduct, and safety are swiftly brought to the attention of Staff and the Board of Directors and resolved as soon as possible.  
  
This policy replaces previous forms of reporting with a single, trackable intake channel via the [Protohaven Formal Complaint &amp; Concern Form](https://forms.gle/Mz8P5ysvy6yeDiSZ9 "Protohaven Formal Complaint & Concern Form

(https://forms.gle/Mz8P5ysvy6yeDiSZ9)").

It is intended to ensure that serious matters involving policy violations, member conduct, and safety are swiftly brought to the attention of Staff and the Board of Directors and resolved as soon as possible. If you have something that you think is serious, please submit it through this channel to ensure it is received! Your submission will be reviewed promptly, and a Protohaven representative will respond within 72 business hours and follow up on next steps.

## Code of Conduct Violations

Any member or guest who violates any part of the Protohaven Code of Conduct will be asked to stop or leave. Violations will be logged in the member’s Neon profile by a Protohaven Shop Tech, Staff, or Board of Director Member. Based on the frequency or severity of the violation(s), Protohaven Board of Directors reserve the right to suspend or terminate the violator’s membership. Notice of suspension or termination will be made in writing. Unsafe use of tools or equipment may also result in removal of clearances, requiring remedial training via classes or private instruction at the violator’s expense.

Members may appeal a suspension or termination of membership in writing to the Board of Directors within 30 calendar days of receipt of notification. Membership will remain in suspension or termination until the appeal is closed.

# COVID-19 & Other Illness Protocols

**06/12/23 Update**

Protohaven follows the health department guidelines regarding masking and does not require masks for fully vaccinated users when community levels are medium or low. You are welcome to continue to wear a mask if you choose.

[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html "https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html")

## Before Coming

Before coming to Protohaven, we ask that members and visitors you:

Pass a self-screen for common symptoms of COVID and other illnesses such as the flu or common cold, including, but not limited to:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-fever-cough-or-short">- <div class="li">Fever</div>
- <div class="li">Cough or shortness of breath</div>
- <div class="li">Change in sense of taste or smell, and</div>
- <div class="li">Have not had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID in the last 10 days</div>
- <div class="li">If anyone coming into Protohaven has had symptoms of any illnesses or has been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID, we ask that they not return to the shop until they either receive a negative COVID test result, or wait 10 days after their last symptoms or contact.</div>

</div>## While Here

While using the shop, we ask everyone to:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-wear-a-cloth-facemas">- <div class="li">Wear a cloth facemask if not vaccinated</div>
- <div class="li">Respect other’s comfort levels regarding mask wearing and space</div>
- <div class="li">Regularly wash their hands</div>
- <div class="li">Ask for any necessary cleaning supplies to disinfect any areas of use, if necessary.</div>

</div>If you have any questions about these protocols, please contact us at hello@protohaven.org.

## After Leaving

If, after leaving the shop, a visitor develops common COVID symptoms, we ask that they get tested for Covid-19 and share the results with us. This allows us to take the appropriate cleaning, testing, and notification measures if the test comes back positive.

**6/28/21 Update**

Masks requirements at Protohaven significantly reduced, some still in place

Starting today, June 28, 2021, members, students, and guests of Protohaven who are fully vaccinated may choose to remove their masks in the space if they remain more than 6 feet away from anyone who is wearing a mask.

If you are vaccinated: this means you must still bring a mask to Protohaven, but may choose to remove it if you maintain social distance of six feet from anyone wearing a mask. You are also more than welcome to continue to wear a mask if you choose.

If you are not yet fully vaccinated (including children): this means you must continue to wear a mask at Protohaven until further notice.

This policy update was made in light of loosening Pennsylvania Department of Health requirements regarding mask wearing, while recognizing that some members of our community may not be able to receive a vaccine for medical reasons. Others may be fully vaccinated, but may not yet be comfortable being in public without their mask, or in close proximity to others not wearing masks.

We ask each member of our community to mindfully follow these new guidelines out of respect for each other, and in the effort to continue the path to a healthy and more equitable society.

Protohaven’s number one shop rule is Safety, and we treat the COVID-19 pandemic as a serious health concern affecting not only those who use the shop, but those they come in contact with outside of the shop.

We also recognize the important role the shop plays in the work and lives of our students, members, and partners.

In order to allow us to remain open in a limited capacity and to mitigate health risks to a reasonable level, we follow all applicable Federal, State, and Municipal health guidelines and have instituted the following visitor expectations and additional protocols.

## Visitor Expectations

Before you come to the shop Before coming to Protohaven, we ask everyone to verify that they:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-pass-a-self-screen-f-1">- <div class="li">Pass a self-screen for common Covid symptoms, meaning</div>
- <div class="li">No fever</div>
- <div class="li">No cough or shortness of breath</div>
- <div class="li">No change in sense of taste or smell, and</div>
- <div class="li">Have not had close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid in the last 10 days</div>
- <div class="li">Use the online calendar to schedule a time to visit the shop, so we have a record of all visitors</div>
- <div class="li">If someone has had symptoms or contact, we ask that they not return to the shop until they either receive a negative Covid test result, or wait 10 days after their last symptoms or contact.</div>

</div>## While at the shop

While using the shop, we ask everyone to:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-wear-a-cloth-facemas-1">- <div class="li">Wear a cloth facemask, unless they are both fully vaccinated and more that six feet from anyone wearing a mask</div>
- <div class="li">Regularly wash their hands, and</div>
- <div class="li">Carry a supplied cleaning kit and wipe down commonly-touched surfaces before and after use</div>

</div>## After leaving the shop

If, after leaving the shop, a visitor develops common Covid symptoms, we ask that they get tested for Covid-19 and share the results with us. This allows us to take the appropriate cleaning, testing, and notification measures if the test comes back positive.

## Additional Protocols

In addition to the listed visitor expectations, we have also put in place the following protocols:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-limit-overall-buildi">- <div class="li">Limit overall building occupancy to 18 people (30% of capacity for the 12,000 sf building)</div>
- <div class="li">Limit individual area occupancy to 1-5 people (depending on area size)</div>
- <div class="li">Limit class size to 5 people (4 students and 1 instructor)</div>
- <div class="li">Provide weekly professional cleaning of the building</div>

</div>In the event of a positive Covid test by a visitor to the space, the space will also temporarily close until:

<div class="level2" id="bkmrk-all-those-present-in">- <div class="li">All those present in the space at the same time as the infected person have been notified,</div>
- <div class="li">All those determined to have been a close contact with the infected person in the space either test negative or begin a 10 day quarantine before returning, and</div>
- <div class="li">A professional cleaning of the building has been completed</div>

</div>If you have any questions about these protocols, please contact us at hello@protohaven.org.

# Noise Policy

Playing or streaming radio/video/podcasts and the like in a manner or volume that is distracting to shop users is a safety risk to members and equipment.

Therefore, playing media in a way that can reasonably be considered distracting is prohibited, unless otherwise permitted by Protohaven.

Violation of this policy may result in a temporary suspension of membership, and repeated violation of this policy may result in permanent revocation of membership and removal from the premises.

# Enforcement

## Procedure for upholding policies

**Board approved 01/2024**

<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the procedure we follow for upholding </span>[Protohaven Policies](https://wiki.api.protohaven.org/books/dokuwiki/page/wikipoliciesstart)<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to preserve a safe, clean, and equitable space where everyone can make things.</span>

## Remediation

When an individual is discovered to be violating a policy while they are still in the shop, one of the board or staff will notify them and offer a path to resolution, e.g:

- if working on a prohibited project, suggest changing the design or removing the project from the premises 
    - if causing a noise disturbance, offer them some headphones or ask them to turn off the noise

For violations not relating to storage and equipment damage:

- If the issue is not resolved or if it recurs within 3 days, they are asked to leave for the day and the violation is recorded on their account. Penalty steps (as below) are followed as needed.

Refer to the specific sections below for violations relating to storage and equipment damage.

## Penalties

In the event that remediation is not successful, penalties will be applied. The member is notified via a standardized email which includes the following:

- A copy of the relevant policy text
- A description of the violation that invoked that policy
- If applicable, a schedule of fees that will occur due to the violation
- If applicable, a duration during which their membership is suspended (see Suspension below)

If fees apply:

- Notify again when the violation is resolved, issuing an invoice and giving them a week to contact with an appeal or payment.
- At the end of the grace period, charge their card unless it's otherwise decided by the board.
- If their card is not on file, their membership is suspended until the fees are paid.

If suspension applies:

- Their membership is immediately suspended, however they are offered the ability to cancel storage subscriptions and remove any storage or materials they have left at the shop while escorted by an on-duty tech. 
    - At the end of the suspension period, they are notified that the suspension period has ended and their membership can be resumed.

## Suspension

- If the member's history includes 3 violations within the past 3 months, their membership is suspended for 30 days.
- Every time the member exceeds this threshold (3 violations in 6 months) the suspension period will increase by 60 days. This means 90 days for the second violation, 150 days for the third violation, etc.
- Actions resulting in sustained damage to the equipment or imminent danger to members may result in a more severe suspension or potentially permanent revocation of membership.

## Appeals

- Members have 30 days to appeal decisions resulting in fees or suspension of membership. This is done by a submission in writing.
- 3 board members or staff uninvolved with the initial violation process then meet with the member to hear them out. The membership coordinator should always be in attendance.
- The committee reviews evidence and makes a decision on whether to uphold or change the outcome. They can solicit opinions from the rest of the board if desired.

## Special Cases

### Storage Violation

When improperly stored objects are found, a report is filed and a "paid storage required" tag posted at the location.

The report includes:

- a picture of the violation
- a description of the violation
- what the violation will be charged as

This report kicks off the following process:

- Automation posts this event to a new #storage channel to notify members.
- If a particular member is suspected, staff will attempt to reach out to the contact info they have on file to notify them of the storage issue directly.
- Daily summaries are posted to #storage of active storage violations and their accrued cost
- If the member reclaims their storage by paying the fee, the violation is closed and a record of the violation is stored in that user's Neon account.
- If nobody claims the violation after ~2 weeks, the objects are declared property of Protohaven and removed from the area.

Note that this process does not incur back fees for storage which was found to already be in violation for a period of time - the fee "timer" starts upon first report.

### Equipment Damage

When equipment damage is discovered, a tool report is filed (ideally with a picture).

The report kicks off the following process:

- Automation posts this tool report to #maintenance
- Video log is reviewed if needed, and a suspect is found. Fees and/or suspension are applied to this user per the general flow above.
- A record of the violation is stored in that user's Neon account.

# Privacy Policy

Our clients, members, and other parties with whom we do business entrust Protohaven with important information relating to their lives and business. It is our policy that all client and member information is considered confidential and will not be disclosed to external parties or to employees without a â&#128;&#156;need to know.â&#128;&#157; If an employee questions whether certain information is considered confidential, the employee should first check with his or her immediate supervisor.

This policy is intended to alert employees to the need for discretion at all times, and is not intended to inhibit normal business communications.

# Non-Discrimination & Anti-Harassment Policy

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Purpose and Scope </span>

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Protohaven is committed to ensuring an environment that is free from all forms of harassment, discrimination, or conduct that can be considered coercive, or likely to create a hostile environment, including sexual harassment. Discrimination or harassment based on sex (gender), race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, </span><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-family: Nunito,sans-serif; color: #444444; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> physical appearance, language, education background, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">veteran status, or other protected categories is not allowed. Protohaven board members, staff, volunteers, members and guests must be aware that such behavior will not be tolerated.</span>

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Responsibility </span>

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Chair of the Board of Directors, acting in concert with the Membership &amp; Operations Coordinator, shall have responsibility for enforcement of this Policy. Protohaven staff will ensure that this policy is presented to new volunteers and that it is reviewed with them periodically. </span>

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy Statement</span>

1. <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">All Protohaven directors, staff, volunteers, members and guests, regardless of their position, are covered by and expected to comply with this policy. Directors, staff, and volunteers are expected to take appropriate measures to ensure that prohibited conduct does not occur, and members are expected to immediately report any such occurrences of prohibited conduct. </span>

2. <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Harassment, for purposes of this policy, includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It also includes conduct in any form that is based on sex (gender), race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, </span><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; font-family: Nunito,sans-serif; color: #444444; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> physical appearance, language, education background, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">veteran status, or other protected categories that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with Protohaven activities in which an individual participates or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. The above are not meant to be all-inclusive but are provided as examples of harassment. </span>

3. <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Staff, volunteers and members who believe they are being harassed, have been harassed, or who witness or hear about harassment directed toward a staff member, volunteers or member should contact the Chair or the Membership &amp; Operations Coordinator.</span>

4. <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Protohaven takes all complaints seriously. The Chair and the Membership &amp; Operations Coordinator will determine promptly whether to conduct an investigation and, if so, whether to conduct it themselves or to direct outside counsel to conduct an investigation. Investigations will be conducted with all deliberate speed and appropriate discretion. Where required by law, Protohaven will report the complaint to appropriate legal authorities. </span>

5. <span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The findings of the investigation will be furnished to the Board of Directors for appropriate action. Appropriate action, as well as the effective date of the action, for violations of this policy will be based, in whole or in part, on the seriousness of the offense(s) and/or whether the individual(s) involved have previously violated this or other Protohaven policies. Such action may include verbal reprimand, written reprimand, suspension, separation (of employment), or permanent excusal of the member from Protohaven or of the volunteer from their volunteer position(s) with Protohaven. The member or volunteer has the right to appeal to the full Board of Directors within 30 calendar days from the date they are notified of the action. Retaliation for making a complaint about discrimination or harassment or assisting in an investigation of a discrimination or harassment complaint is prohibited. </span>

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Approved by the Board of Directors, February 2025</span>

# Anti-Bullying & Harassment Policy

Protohaven is committed to providing an environment that is free from harassment and bullying, and where everyone is treated, and treats others, with dignity and respect. Protohaven will not permit or condone bullying or harassment of any kind and applies to staff, volunteers, instructors, members, visitors, and partnering organizations.

### Harassment

Harassment is any unwanted physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for that person.

It is important to note that harassment occurs even if the harasser perceives his/her behavior as being harmless and without malice, or ‘just a bit of fun’. What matters is how the behavior makes the recipient feel, and not what the perpetrator’s intentions were. Also, a person may be harassed even if they were not the intended ‘target’ of the behavior.

### Bullying

Bullying is a sustained form of psychological abuse. It is defined as offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behavior, involving the abuse or misuse of power, which has the purpose or effect of belittling, humiliating or threatening the recipient.

This policy covers verbal, nonverbal, physical, coercion, isolation, and intrusion as forms of bullying and harassment.

# Drug & Alcohol Policy

Consumption of illegal drugs or other intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited anywhere on Protohaven property (inside and outside).

The consumption of alcohol is only permitted at sanctioned events designated by Protohaven staff.

Members and guests are not permitted to operate equipment or use any tools while under the influence of debilitating medications, illegal drugs, or alcohol.

#### Smoking &amp; Vaping

Smoking and vaping is not permitted indoors and is not permitted in the front of the building.

# Formal Complaint & Concern Policy

Effective: September 2026

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">1. Purpose</span>

This policy establishes a clear, consistent, and confidential way for members &amp; volunteers to raise concerns or complaints and sets forth a process by which Protohaven staff and Protohaven’s Board of Directors are to respond. It is intended to ensure that serious matters involving policy violations, member conduct, and safety are swiftly brought to the attention of Staff and the Board of Directors and resolved as soon as possible. This policy replaces informal reporting with a single, trackable intake channel.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">2. Formal Complaint Definition</span>

A formal complaint is a written, official notification submitted by a Protohaven member alleging a specific breach of our bylaws, code of conduct, standards or policies. Formal complaints are intended to address significant concerns about a person, policy, safety issue or process. This is different from day-to-day feedback or suggestions, which are welcomed through informal conversation or Shop Tech shift reports.

- **Examples of matters that should be raised through this channel**: conflicts with another member, observations of unsafe actions in the shop, interactions in which you have been made to feel unsafe or disrespected, disagreement with a decision that has directly affected you, or observations of a policy that is not being followed consistently.
- Examples of concerns that should be raised through other, more conventional channels: general facility suggestions, general complaints about administrative processes and shop upkeep, and other one-off matters unrelated to policy and safety. These matters may be raised through ShopTech shift notes, Discord, or brought up in person with staff and Directors.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">3. How to Submit a Complaint</span>

All formal complaints are to be submitted via the [Formal Complaint &amp; Concern Form](https://forms.gle/qqCdLTiTFMhwfTUJ7) (see Section 7). This is the only channel that guarantees a tracked, timely response.

Confidential (not anonymous): Members/volunteers may request that Protohaven staff and directors keep their name confidential.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">4. What Happens to Informal Complaints</span>

If a concern meriting a formal complaint is raised in a shift report, Discord, or through informal conversation, staff will:

- Thank the volunteer for raising it, and
- Ask them to submit it through the Volunteer Concern Form so it can be formally tracked and addressed.

Protohaven staff and directors will not discuss complaints or share resolutions in Discord or shift reports, even informally. This keeps the process fair, consistent, and confidential for everyone involved, and ensures issues are not being overlooked.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">5. Response Timeline</span>

Each submitted complaint shall follow the timeline below, regardless of outcome:

<div align="left" dir="ltr" id="bkmrk-step-who-timeframe-c"><table><colgroup><col width="223"></col><col width="143"></col><col width="153"></col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>Step

</td><td>Who

</td><td>Timeframe

</td></tr><tr><td>Complaint submitted via form

</td><td>Member/Volunteer

</td><td>Any time

</td></tr><tr><td>Acknowledgment sent

</td><td>Staff

</td><td>Within 3 business days of submission

</td></tr><tr><td>Initial review &amp; routing (staff-only vs. board-level)

</td><td>Staff + Board Chair

</td><td>Within 5 business days of submission

</td></tr><tr><td>Status update to submitter (even if unresolved)

</td><td>Staff

</td><td>Within 10 business days of submission

</td></tr><tr><td>Resolution or documented next steps

</td><td>Staff + Board (if escalated)

</td><td>Within 30 days, or a revised timeline is communicated

</td></tr></tbody></table>

</div>If a complaint requires longer to resolve (e.g., it involves board action or involvement of external parties), the submitter will be told this explicitly, along with a revised expected timeframe.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">6. What Members &amp; Volunteers Are Told vs. What Stays With Staff &amp; Board</span>

Complaint resolution is the responsibility of Protohaven staff and the board of directors. Protohaven staff and directors will make a good-faith effort to be transparent about the status of a complaint investigation and its resolution. However, staff and directors may be bound by confidentiality requirements of other policies. Information sharing will be based on what the organization can share and what it cannot share.

What CAN be shared:

- General status updates on the complaint process.
- The outcome as it directly affects the submitter or the program.
- Any resulting process or policy changes.

What CANNOT be shared:

- Advice of legal counsel or other professionals
- Executive session discussions.
- Confidential details regarding another individual.
- Disciplinary actions taken against another person.

If a volunteer's complaint names another individual, that individual will not be told who filed the complaint unless the submitter explicitly agrees to be identified or revealing the identity becomes necessary for a fair, formal process (e.g., a formal HR-style investigation).

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">7. The Concern Form</span>

A Google Form titled “[Protohaven Formal Complaint &amp; Concern Form](https://forms.gle/qqCdLTiTFMhwfTUJ7)” is used as the official intake point. It notifies staff and Board Chair immediately upon submission. Your concern will be reviewed promptly. A Protohaven representative will respond within 72 business hours and follow up on next steps.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">8. Roles &amp; Responsibilities</span>

- Designated staff members acknowledge submissions, provide an initial assessment of the complaint, and adjudicate matters within normal operational scope.
- The board liaison (typically the board chair or their designee) is informed of any complaint involving staff conduct, safety, or any matter escalated by staff. The board designee helps ensure timelines are met if Protohaven staff are unavailable.
- Board (as a body): reviews escalated complaints, particularly those involving policy changes, repeated issues, or staff members.

<span style="text-decoration: underline;">9. Reviewing This Policy</span>

This policy will be reviewed and re-approved annually by the Board of Directors, or sooner if deficiencies become apparent. Members/volunteers may suggest changes to this process itself through the same Protohaven Formal Concern Form.

# Member Participation at Board of Directors Meetings

<div id="bkmrk-members-may-share-co">Members may share concerns with the Board of Directors at the monthly meeting, held at 6:30 pm on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. </div><div id="bkmrk-">  
</div><div id="bkmrk-guidelines-are-as-fo">Guidelines are as follows:</div><div id="bkmrk--1">  
</div>1\. Member submits, in writing, a request to present an issue to the BOD (<board@protohaven.org>)

2\. Request must be submitted 2 weeks in advance of the meeting (note that meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.)

3\. Board will review requests and notify member of acceptance - a maximum of 1 issue will be accepted for each meeting and only one member can attend the meeting to present the issue

4\. Member will have 15 minutes to present their issue and engage in dialogue with the BOD members

5\. BOD members will take the issue under advisement and will report back to the member within 2 weeks of the meeting. BOD will not be obligated to make a decision during the meeting in which the issue is discussed.

# Youth Policy

### 1. Overview

This policy establishes participation of Youth (individuals who are under 18) at Protohaven. The priority is safety, appropriate supervision, and inspiring the next generation of makers.

### 2. Age Categories &amp; Access Levels

#### Under 13 years of age

- May participate in classes, youth programs, or membership with a Participation Waiver signed by parent/guardian.
- Must be directly supervised by a Parent/Guardian unless attending a school or group organization-supervised session.
- Front studio access only, no access to back workshop equipment.
- Parent/guardian membership and supervision is required if youth joins membership (family memberships are available)

#### Ages 13–17

- May participate in classes, youth programs, or membership with a Participation Waiver signed by parent/guardian.
- Must be directly supervised by a Parent/Guardian unless attending a school or group organization-supervised session.
- Parent/guardian membership and supervision is required if youth joins membership (family memberships are available)

### 3. Required Documentation

For any youth using Protohaven:

- A Participation Waiver &amp; Liability Release signed by a Parent/Guardian (physical copy or digital copy at sign-in desk).
- Emergency contact information.

### 4. Supervision Requirements

All youth must be supervised by a Parent/Guardian for all classes, workshops, and memberships unless supervised by a school/group organization for the duration of the program.

- Instructors or staff may restrict access to specific tools at any time based on behavior or safety concerns.

### 5. Conduct Expectations

Youth must:

- Follow all Protohaven rules, [policies](https://wiki.protohaven.org/books/policies), safety procedures, and instructions.
- Wear appropriate protective equipment.
- Not engage in horseplay, distractions, or unsafe conduct.
- Respect the space, tools, and other Protohaven members.

Failure to follow these rules may result in immediate suspension of access.

### 6. Tool Use

All tool use requires training and supervision from Parent/Guardian unless supervised by a School/Group Organization. Tool use outside of a class/workshop/program requires tool clearance in addition to supervision.

### 7. Revocation of Privileges

Protohaven may revoke a youth’s access for:

- Unsafe behavior
- Disruption of activities
- Vandalism or intentional tool misuse
- Violation of any part of this policy

### 8. Policy Updates

This policy may be revised as needed. Continued participation indicates acceptance of the current policy. Protohaven may make exceptions to this policy on a case-by-case basis.