Member Guidelines & Code of Conduct
Welcome to the Club!
Welcome to a community dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of robotics. Our club's objective is:
To advance the understanding and application of robotics through education, collaborative projects, and knowledge sharing within the community; to foster creative innovation in robotics, promoting symbiotic relationships between humans and intelligent systems; and to provide a platform for enthusiasts, professionals, and the public to engage with robotics technology.
This document outlines the guidelines and principles that allow our community to thrive. We are founded on a philosophy of empowering curiosity, exploration, and learning through responsible engagement with technology. By joining, you agree to uphold these guidelines, contributing to an environment that is inclusive, safe, and inspiring for all.
Our Core Values
These five values are the foundation of our community. As a member, you are expected to embody them in all your club-related activities.
- Respect: For ourselves, other members, our guests, our tools, and our shared spaces.
- Responsibility: Taking ownership of our actions and their impact on the community and our projects.
- Learning: Embracing curiosity, asking questions, and sharing knowledge to build our collective skills.
- Inclusion: Welcoming all backgrounds, skill levels, and perspectives to create a rich and supportive environment.
- Safety: Prioritizing well-being through understanding, preparation, and mindful practice.
Section 1: Code of Conduct
A. An Inclusive & Collaborative Community
We are committed to being a space where everyone feels welcome and empowered. To achieve this, you are expected to:
- Use inclusive and welcoming language.
- Be patient with different learning styles and paces.
- Share your knowledge freely and be open to learning from others, regardless of their experience level.
- Recognize that diverse perspectives and skills are a source of strength for our community.
- Address disagreements or conflicts respectfully and constructively.
B. Respect for People, Property, and Robots
- Treat all members, guests, volunteers, and partners with courtesy and respect at all times.
- Handle club equipment, tools, components, and facilities with care and responsibility. Return items to their proper place after use.
- Respect the projects of other members. Do not handle, modify, or operate another member's project without their explicit permission.
- Use club resources responsibly and primarily for purposes aligned with the club's objectives.
C. Responsibility and Integrity
- Maintain the confidentiality of private member information and internal club business.
- Act in a way that reflects positively on the club, both during official activities and in public forums (including social media).
- Avoid any conflicts of interest that could harm the club's mission or reputation.
Section 2: Safety Philosophy & Practices
Our approach to safety is proactive, not restrictive. We believe that informed, conscious engagement with technology is the foundation of both safety and learning.
Your Personal Responsibility for Safety
- Understand Before You Use: Before operating any equipment, you are responsible for taking the time to understand how it works, its potential risks, and its safety features.
- Ask Questions: If you are ever unsure about the safe operation of a tool or system, you must ask a qualified member or leader for guidance before proceeding.
- Start Simple: Begin with basic functions before attempting advanced or complex operations, especially with new equipment.
- Stay Focused: Remain present and mindful when operating machinery or working on projects. Avoid distractions that could compromise your safety or the safety of others.
- Speak Up: Safety is a shared responsibility. If you see any condition or behavior you believe is unsafe, you are obligated to address it respectfully or report it to a club leader immediately.
Section 3: Acknowledgement of Risk & Waiver of Liability
This section is a condition of membership. Please read it carefully.
By completing your membership application and agreeing to these guidelines, you formally acknowledge and agree to the following:
- Acknowledgement of Inherent Risks: You understand and acknowledge that activities involving robotics, electronics, tools, and machinery can be inherently dangerous. These activities involve risks of property damage, personal injury, or even death, which may result from your own actions, the actions of others, or unforeseen events.
- Assumption of Risk: You voluntarily and knowingly agree to assume all risks, known and unknown, associated with your participation in any and all Robot Club activities, including but not limited to the use of the facilities, equipment, and materials.
- Waiver of Liability: In consideration for being permitted to become a member and participate in club activities, you hereby agree to release, waive, and discharge the Robot Club, its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, and members (collectively, "the Released Parties") from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, or causes of action whatsoever for any injuries, damages, losses, or death that may occur as a result of your participation. You agree not to sue the Released Parties for any such claims.
- Personal Responsibility: You affirm that you are responsible for your own safety and will adhere to all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the club.
Section 4: Membership & Club Policies
4.1. Membership Dues
Membership is contingent upon the payment of annual dues. Dues must be paid in full upfront to activate a new membership or to renew an existing one. To access club resources and participate in members-only activities, you must remain a member in good financial standing. Dues are subject to change and are non-refundable.
4.2. Guest Policy
To ensure a safe and focused environment for our members, regular club activities and workshops are for members only. We do not permit guests at these events. Individuals interested in the club are encouraged to attend our public monthly open house meetings, which are open to everyone.
Section 5: Privacy & Media Consent
To document our community and promote our activities, the club may photograph or record video at its events.
5.1. Standard Club Activities (e.g., Weekly Meetings)
Your participation in club activities implies your consent to be photographed or recorded for the club's promotional purposes (e.g., website, social media, print materials). If you do not wish to be included, you may opt out by submitting a formal request in writing to the club's directors. We will make a reasonable effort to accommodate your request.
5.2. Monthly Meetings Hosted by InterAccess
Our public monthly meetings are hosted at and in partnership with InterAccess. These events are subject to the media and privacy policies of InterAccess, not our club. By attending these specific events, you fall under their policy. If you wish to opt out of being photographed or recorded at a monthly meeting, you must contact InterAccess directly to make separate arrangements. Our club cannot manage media consent on your behalf at partner venues.
Section 6: Violations of Guidelines
Adherence to these guidelines is essential for the health and safety of our community.
- Resolution: Most minor issues can and should be resolved through direct, respectful communication between the individuals involved. If that is not possible or appropriate, please speak with a club leader.
- Enforcement: Behavior that endangers others, persistently violates our core values, or harms the club community may result in a formal warning, temporary suspension of privileges, or permanent termination of your membership without refund.
- Decision-Making: Decisions regarding the suspension or termination of membership will be made by the club's board of directors.
Agreement
By completing your membership registration, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by all sections of the Robot Club Member Guidelines & Code of Conduct for the duration of your membership.