Introduction​​​​

This guide for teachers is for supervising the MAKE step of the design process for Level II children in school years 4, 5, 6; that is 9 to 11-year-old children. This basic guide is provided for discussion only, it is not comprehensive. A list of permitted and forbidden items, and safety to do with making, is provided. Please note the disclaimer below.
 

Safety for the MAKE step

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Permitted tools and materials
The children may only use tools and materials intended for their age group, that is, 9 to 11-year-old children. Source your equipment and supplies by recognised brands from trusted retailers.

• Stationery and school supplies:
  • Non-toxic coloured pens, pencils, and paints.
  • Non-toxic modelling clay.
  • Plastic scale/ruler, eraser, pencil sharpener, note pad, adhesive tape, and so forth.
  • Adhesives.
  • Scissors and other implements.
• Hand tools:
  • Training in the safe use of hand tools is mandatory.
  • Hammers and mallets, screwdrivers, handsaws, pliers, spanners, files and rasps, clamps, vices, hand planes, sanding blocks, staple gun.
• Cutter knives:
  • Training in the safe use of cutter knives is mandatory.
  • Use only stainless steel rulers with cutter knives.
  • Cutter knives must be safely stored by the teachers and requested from them and returned to them after every use.
• Power tools:
  • Training in the safe use of power tools is mandatory.
  • Glue gun, cordless screwdriver.
  • Other power tools are forbidden for this age group.

Forbidden tools and materials
Here follows a short, yet incomplete list of forbidden tools, materials, and so forth.

• Power tools, except glue guns and cordless screwdrivers, as stated above.
• Floor-mounted and table-top machines.
• Materials
  • Glass.
  • Sheet metal.
  • Heavy things.
• Processes, substances, and chemicals
  • Fire or the use of a naked flame.
  • Industrial chemicals, such as oil-based paints and solvents.
  • Dust producing machines and processes.
  • Fume emitting machines and processes.
• Working from ladders, or at height (standing on a chair or table).

Notes

• Do a risk assessment before allowing children to make things by hand.
  • Do individual risk assessments for children or groups working on unique design topics. For example, beware of the danger of children making structures that might collapse.
• The work environment should be protected from the weather, with a comfortable climate (temperature and humidity), and with adequate ventilation and lighting.
• Teachers must supervise at all times while children are making.
• Children may only use tools for which they have been trained, when permitted by the teacher.
  • Demonstrate the safe use of hand tools, cutter knives, and permitted power tools to the children.
  • Tools must be used with their safety features in place.
• Children must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when making, including goggles.
  • Pay attention to the danger of poking eyes with wires and sticks.
  • Mandate the use of ear plugs in noisy environments.
• Children must wear appropriate dress when making.
  • Lab coats or overalls are recommended.
  • Closed shoes are mandatory. No open shoes such as sandals.
  • No loose fitting clothes, no jewellery, and long hair must be tied back.
• First-aid kit to be kept at hand.
  • It is recommended to have a nurse or medic on standby when the children are working.
• Keep the area clean and the floor free of obstructions.
  • Clean spills immediately.
• Maintain class discipline, and prevent disorderly conduct.
  • No rushing and running within class.
  • No horseplay, play fighting, dares, or practical jokes.
• All tools to be accounted for and stored safely after each session.
• Faulty or broken equipment must be disabled or removed immediately.
• Investigate and report accidents and near-misses (events that nearly result in accidents), in the event that one has taken place.
  • Teachers and students must endeavour to learn from accidents and near-misses to avoid repeating them.

​​​​​​​Disclaimer
Making or building physical objects is potentially dangerous. Verify this guide with the responsible authorities at your institution. First consult your national, state, and municipal regulations; and your school’s or district’s guidelines — they take precedence over this guide. Also verify that your school has adequate insurance coverage for students and staff engaged in working with their hands, using hand tools, power tools, and machines. The Design Thinking for Schools website provides no warranties nor guarantees, neither stated nor implied, with the use of the information posted on this website. The Design Thinking for Schools website is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information on this website.