Training

Training is required in order to obtain access to Fabrication Lab resources and spaces; different levels of training are required for the different areas of the lab.

Training Portal

For access to training, visit our group page on the Harvard Training Portal. The group page links to all of the training we offer users of the Lab. (Note, this is a limited-access group, allowing only individuals associated with GSD access to this training).

Our required training includes:

  1. Fabrication Lab Orientation:
    • Fabrication Lab Orientation
    • Hazard Communication and Materials Training
    • Waiver and Release Agreement
  2. Woodshop Safety Training:
    • Orientation
    • Assessment
  3. Laser Cutting Training:
    • Safety
    • Workflow
  4. 3D Printing Training:
    • Safety
    • Workflow
  5. Hot Wire Foam Cutter Training
  6. Spray Booth Training
  7. [Annual Refresher each new academic year, for returning students, faculty, and staff]

Training completion data is collected twice daily: at 4 AM and 4 PM. Some access systems require the following hour to be updated and others may not be updated until business hours on the following business day.

New GSD Students

Most students registered at the GSD will be encouraged to complete the training as a part of the initial Orientation Week for new students, to avoid disruption to their coursework once the semester has started.

Non-GSD Students and Research Staff

In addition to research staff conducting work related to approved GSD research projects, any Harvard College student, graduate student registered in another school within Harvard University, or registered at MIT or another participating institution who is cross-registered for GSD courses must complete the same training required of GSD students if the course in which they are enrolled requires access to Fabrication Lab resources. These individuals should reach out to Fabrication Lab staff to coordinate access to training and to verify they are entered into the necessary systems for access; see the About Us page for contact information.

The Fabrication Lab is intended for the use of the faculty, staff, and students enrolled in courses at the Graduate School of Design pursuing academic work. Please see our Policies page for more information.