Esquimalt Men's Shed

Esquimalt Men’s Shed Code Of Conduct

Purpose of the Shed

The Esquimalt Men’s Shed exists to provide a safe, welcoming, respectful, and supportive place where members gather in friendship, learn and share skills, work on meaningful projects, and contribute positively to the community. This Shed values companionship, inclusion, practical activity, mutual support and community service.

Respect for Others

We will:

  • Treat all people with dignity, courtesy, and respect;
  • Welcome members from all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels;
  • Listen to others without interruption, ridicule, intimidation, or harassment;
  • Respect differences of opinion and personal beliefs;
  • Avoid offensive, discriminatory, racist, sexist, homophobic, or abusive language or behaviour;
  • Support a culture of friendship, encouragement, and support.

The Shed is a place where members should feel safe, accepted, and valued.

Equality and Non-Discrimination

The Esquimalt Men’s Shed does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on any criterion, including:

  • Age,
  • Disability,
  • Ethnicity or race,
  • Religion or beliefs,
  • Sexual orientation,
  • Gender identity,
  • Marital or family status,
  • Economic background

Everyone deserves respect and fair treatment.

Inclusion and Support

The Shed exists to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing.

We will:

  • Encourage participation and mutual support;
  • Help new members feel welcome;
  • Respect privacy and confidentiality;
  • Support members who may be struggling socially, emotionally, or physically;
  • Recognize that “talking shoulder to shoulder”, conversation while working on a project is an important part of the Men’s Shed tradition.

Bullying, exclusion, gossip, or cliques that make others uncomfortable are not acceptable.

Positive Behaviour

Members are expected to:

  • Behave honestly and responsibly;
  • Contribute positively to the Shed environment;
  • Treat tools, equipment, materials, and facilities with care;
  • Respect shared spaces and clean up after themselves;
  • Follow decisions made by the Shed leadership, project leaders, and safety coordinators;
  • Raise concerns constructively and respectfully.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Many conversations within the Shed are personal and confidential.
Members agree to:

  • Respect the privacy of others,
  • Not share personal information or stories outside the shed without permission,
  • Avoid photographing or recording others without consent.

Community and Volunteer Spirit

The Esquimalt Men’s Shed is a community-based, non-profit organization.
Members are encouraged to:

  • Share skills and knowledge,
  • Participate in community projects,
  • Support fundraising and maintenance activities,
  • Respect volunteer time and effort,
  • Work cooperatively for the benefit of the Shed and the broader community.

Safety First

Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Members and guests must:

  • Follow all workshop and tool safety rules;
  • Use equipment only if trained or authorized to do so;
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE);
  • Report unsafe conditions, damaged equipment, or injuries immediately;
  • Keep work areas clean and free of hazards;
  • Never operate tools or machinery while impaired by alcohol, drugs, fatigue, or medication that affects safe operation.

No project or task is more important than safety.

Alcohol, Drugs, and Smoking

  • Alcohol and recreational drugs are not permitted during Shed activities involving operating tools and equipment.
  • Smoking or vaping is not permitted at any Shed facility or event.
  • Members must not attend the Shed while impaired in any way.

Personal Projects and Shared Resources

Members may work on personal or community projects where approved by the Shed.
Members must:

  • Respect booking or usage procedures for tools and workspaces,
  • Clearly label personal materials and projects,
  • Not remove Shed property without permission,
  • Use donated materials fairly and responsibly,
  • Understand that community projects may take priority over personal work at certain times,
  • Not use Shed tools and materials for personal financial gain.

Member Commitment

By participating in the Esquimalt Men’s Shed, members agree to:

  • Follow this Code of Conduct,
  • Support a safe and welcoming environment,
  • Respect fellow members and volunteers,
  • Contribute positively to the Shed and community.

Together we create a place of friendship, learning, purpose, and support.