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Cahoots Workshop - Cahoots Ltd
Last updated 13th July 2026
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Cahoots is committed to maintaining the safety of the Workshop by training all users and supervising the space. Training provides confidence and safe working practices for all users of the Workshop, while supervision ensures that policies are maintained and adhered to, and that planning, recording and reporting needs are met.
Hazard identification, proper use of tools and equipment, and understanding how to maintain a safe working environment are empowering skills. Participating in this learning and practice is a requirement for all users of the Cahoots Workshop and we consider it to be inherently valuable in building a capable, resilient community.
The Cahoots Workshop has a range of hazards. Nobody can be in the workshop area until they have had an initial induction performed by Cahoots staff. The Health and Safety component of the induction includes broad information regarding safety in the space, emergency procedures, and policies around specific areas and tools. The induction includes reading and understanding this policy. The induction will be recorded in the induction register.
Nobody should use any tool until they have been trained to do so properly and safely.
Tools marked with a hazard triangle require training from someone authorised by Cahoots Ltd regardless of previous experience. This training will be recorded in the training register.
All tools should be marked with a training sticker, to indicate what level of training is required before using the tool safely.
Quick-start Self-Training
(green with 1 cog)
Tools marked with this sticker require users to read a quick-start document found at workshop.cahoots.nz/tools before using this tool for the first time.
Demonstration Training Required
(yellow with 2 cogs)
Tools marked with this sticker require users to complete a demonstration training from a volunteer before using this tool.
These can be impromptu when a willing and qualified volunteer is present, and are often done during drop-in hours
Class Training Required
(red with 3 cogs)
Tools marked with sticker require users to complete a scheduled training class before using this tool
Some tools are identified as particularly hazardous, and these cannot be used while alone in the Workshop. These tools will have the following safety buddy sticker in addition to their training level sticker:
Safety Buddy Required
(blue triangle with an image of two people)
Tools marked with this sticker require another person (able to call for emergency services) to be present in the workshop at all times while you are the tool.
Wearing appropriate attire for the Workshop depends on the work you are doing. These restrictions don’t apply to all work in ‘The Closet’ (our clean work space) but are mandatory in the main workshop.