Last updated: 5/30/2020 - 5:53PM

Pikes Peak Makerspace COVID-19 Strategy

Please understand that we know we have a wonderful community that supports each other and we want to do what is right for each other and the community.

The rapidly evolving coronavirus [COVID-19] is impacting individuals and companies around the world. At Pikes Peak Makerspace, our highest priority is the health, safety, and well-being of our members and the community. Since COVID-19 spreads exponentially once it gets a foothold in a community, it’s critical that everybody and every organization do what they can RIGHT NOW to slow the spread. That means taking all the precautions the CDC recommends - PARTICULARLY MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS AND ADEQUATE SANITIZING SUPPLIES especially in the next days and weeks.

For these reasons, we closed Pikes Peak Makerspace as of Monday, March 16, and are following a Phased approach in re-opening as described below.  As of Friday, May 22nd we are open at a PHASE 1.  Classes, tours and events are suspended indefinitely.

We realize this is a difficult time for all. We feel it is our civic duty to take the actions we have. 

As circumstances evolve, we certainly want to find a safe way to make our space available for all members so we are looking at a phased approach for opening PPM. Here’s a high level summary of our current thinking:

PHASE 0 - Shut down.

Time frame: indefinite - probably weeks

No one enters except Executive Director or a Board Member for any safety checks or to secure property.  No members, classes, tours or events in the space.

PHASE 1 - Shut down with the exceptions noted below.

Time frame: indefinite - probably weeks

The only exception is for those whose income depends on having access to the Makerspace and to those with dedicated spaces.  At this time we are not taking on new dedicated space members. We have talked with these individuals and come to an agreement on how they can make it as safe as possible with the knowledge that, depending on circumstances, PPM could close for everyone at any time.  These individuals are in the space under the following guidelines:

1. Individuals will conduct self wellness check before coming in. If you have been directly exposed to someone with COVID, have a temperature, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, headache, loss of taste or smell or are feeling ill, do not come into the space.
   
2. Always badge into the space, to maintain a record of who was in the space for contact tracing, if needed.
   
3. When you enter the building, either directly wash your hands or use hand sanitizer (available at the front desk).
   
4. Masks need to be worn at all times in common spaces of the Makerspace. Dedicated space renters may remove masks when in their dedicated spaces.
   
5. It is the responsibility of the individual to wipe down any equipment, items and surfaces that you are in contact with before and after use.
   
6. Do not use shared PPE. If you do not already have a personal set of PPE, please take one from the supplies and maintain them as your own. A $3 donation is requested to cover the cost of the items.
   
7. Use of refrigerator, microwave, coffee machine and water cooler are allowed, but must be wiped down after each use.
   
8. No dishes, cups, silverware are to be shared. Please provide your own items, clean them after use and keep them in your dedicated area.
   
9. Follow good practices for coughing/sneezing and wash hands frequently while in the space.
   
10. Wipe down the door handle and light switches as you leave.
    
11. No non-members allowed into the space, at this time.

PHASE 2 - Controlled access (for members ONLY - no guests)

Time Frame: when the peak infection rate has passed and there are assurances that the medical system can handle the virus and critical care as determined by the CDC and/or relevant governments - could be months

The following minimum processes are in place. (We will work with members to refine)

1. The space is off limits to anyone who is sick. A person needs to remain out of the space until they show no symptoms and do not have a temperature for 1 week. We believe it is in the best interest of our members for those who are infected or in contact with someone that is infected to please notify the Makerspace. (m@pikespeakmakerspace.org)

2. A scheduling process is in place to assure Social Distancing can be maintained.

3. Disinfectant procedures for those utilizing the space are in place, tested, and understood.

4. Signs and materials are readily available to assure ease of performing as described above.

5. Safety orientation is reworked and tested that includes the steps above and includes agreeing to follow the CDC guidelines - All members will be required to go through this orientation and sign off on a document saying they understand and agree to the requirements before re-entering PPM. 

6. Guidelines and requirements for personal protection gear is in place - not only for virus protection but for injury safety protection.

PHASE 3 - Enhanced operations to include what makes sense from the past plus new ideas

Time Frame:when the CDC and/or relevant governments declare it’s safe for “normal” operations

Celebrate how the community managed to thrive through trying times

1. Keep the appropriate processes in place that make sense

2. Enjoy the enhanced experience we can now have because of all we learned