Who can use the shops
The Tamarack Building on the Benchlands Campus holds our welding bays, machining areas, and fabrication labs. These shops are for students in the School of Skilled Trades & Transportation. If you need shop access for a project, you can book time here. You must follow every rule to keep yourself and your classmates safe.
Age and consent rules
You must be 16 or older to enter the shops; under-18s need a signed consent form.
Students who are 17 or younger must bring the signed form to the shop supervisor before their first session. Keep the form on your person while you are in the shop. If you do not have the form, you cannot enter the work area.
Safety orientation and gear
Before you can work in the shops, you must complete a short safety orientation. The orientation covers:
- How to lock out and tag out equipment
- Proper use of personal protective equipment
- Emergency stops and first aid locations
- Housekeeping and waste disposal
You must wear closed-toe shoes at all times in the shop. Eye protection, hearing protection, and aprons are available at the front desk. Bring your own leather gloves and welding helmet if you have them. The college provides standard safety glasses and ear plugs.
How to book shop time
Drop-in hours run Monday to Friday during term time. If you need a specific machine or a private work bay, book through the student portal. Bookings open seven days before the session. Arrive ten minutes early to sign the logbook. If you miss your booking window without cancelling, the next booking opens a day later.
Fees and parking
Shop access is free for active students. You only need a valid student parking permit to use Lot B or Lot D. Visitor parking in Lot A charges by the hour. See the parking page for current rates and payment steps.
Who to contact
If you have questions about shop access, safety gear, or booking, contact the School of Skilled Trades & Transportation. You can reach the switchboard at 519-555-0170 and ask for the shop supervisor. For emergencies, call 911 first, then campus security at 519-555-0176.