A guide, not a substitute for your induction. These are general good-practice notes. Always follow your induction and the duty officer's directions for this machine.
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The laser cutter at the Bright United Men's Shed
The laser cutter at the Bright United Men's Shed
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Digital Fabrication · Our Workshop

Laser cutter

Medium risk Induction required

The laser cutter cuts and engraves timber, acrylic, leather and more from your artwork. Precise, quick, and genuinely impressive.

  • When
    Digital Fab · Thursdays
  • Two-member rule
    Don't work alone on this one
  • Before you start
    Complete a laser cutter induction

Using it safely

General good practice for a laser cutter. Your induction covers the specifics for the machine at our shed.

  • Never leave it runningStay with the machine the whole time it is cutting. Fire is the real risk.
  • Only cut approved materialsSome materials give off toxic fumes or catch fire. Check the approved list first.
  • Run the fume extractionThe extractor must be on for every job, no exceptions.
  • Keep the lid closedThe cover stays down while cutting to contain the beam and sparks.
  • Know where the stop isLearn the emergency stop and the extinguisher before your first job.
  • Never work aloneThis is medium-risk gear, so at least one other inducted member must be in the workshop with you.
  • Unsure? Ask a Duty OfficerAlways better to ask. They're happy to help and there's no silly question.

Before you start

An induction is required

Before using the laser cutter for the first time, you'll do a short, friendly hands-on induction with an experienced member. We'll walk you through setup, safe operation and how to stop safely, at your own pace.

Book one with a Duty Officer on any open day, or call the shed on 03 5750 1120. Already inducted? Remember the two-member rule still applies.

When it runs

Digital Fab · Thursdays

The digital bench runs Thursday evenings. Go at your own pace, no jargon and no rush.