StretchLearn Course

Build the Workshop You Actually Want — Safely and on Budget

Layout, electrical, dust collection, PPE, and a rock-solid workbench — everything you need before the first cut.

Beginner9 hrSelf PacedRegistered

Course Overview

What this course is designed to develop

This course walks you through every decision in building a capable home workshop, whether you have a one-car garage or a basement corner. You will learn how to size electrical circuits, choose dust collection and ventilation equipment, select and store tools for maximum workflow efficiency, and apply layered safety protocols that match how professional tradespeople actually work. By the end, you will have a prioritised build plan you can execute in phases without overspending.

Learning Outcomes

What the learner should be able to understand, build, or execute.

Plan a workshop layout that optimises workflow, clearance, and light for your specific space

Specify the correct electrical circuit capacity and outlet placement for stationary power tools

Select and position dust collection and ventilation equipment to meet OSHA and ACGIH guidelines

Choose PPE matched to each tool category and build a pre-work safety checklist habit

Build a solid, flat workbench using proven construction methods and common materials

Identify fire hazards specific to woodworking and finishing and implement prevention measures

Curriculum Preview

Inside the curriculum: a structured path from fundamentals to execution.

Preview the course structure, see how the modules build on one another, and understand the path this program is designed to take you through.

Module 1

Module 1: Layout Planning and Space Optimisation

Analyse your raw space and produce a dimensioned floor plan that maximises workflow, clearance, and light before you spend a dollar on tools or infrastructure.

3 lessons

Reading Your Space: Dimensions, Clearances, and LightContent · 45 min

Preview Enabled

Workflow Zones and the Triangle PrincipleContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Phased Build Planning and Budgeting by TierContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Module 2

Module 2: Electrical Circuits and Power Infrastructure

Understand the NEC requirements for workshop circuits, correctly size circuits for your tools, and plan outlet placement to eliminate extension-cord hazards.

3 lessons

NEC Basics: Circuits, Load Calculations, and Panel CapacityContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Outlet Placement, GFCI Requirements, and Extension Cord RulesContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Shop Lighting: Specifying and Installing a Complete Lighting PlanContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Module 3

Module 3: Dust Collection, Ventilation, and Air Quality

Design a dust-collection system and ventilation strategy that keeps fine-particle exposure below OSHA PELs and prevents explosive dust concentrations.

3 lessons

Dust Hazards: Particle Sizes, PELs, and Health EffectsContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Sizing and Positioning a Dust-Collection SystemContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Ventilation, Makeup Air, and Ambient Air FiltrationContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Module 4

Module 4: PPE, Fire Prevention, and the Workbench Build

Select the correct personal protective equipment for each tool category, implement a layered fire-prevention strategy, and build a rock-solid workbench that will anchor your shop for decades.

3 lessons

PPE Selection and Pre-Work Safety HabitsContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Fire Prevention: Finishing Chemicals, Rags, and Electrical HazardsContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Building a Functional Workbench on a BudgetContent · 45 min

LMS Access

Built for Application

A complete learning path, not a one-off inspiration hit.

This program is designed around progression: focused lessons, structured modules, applied resources, assessments, and a course rhythm that turns information into usable capability.

workshop setupshop safetytool storagedust collectionworkbench buildingPPEelectrical circuitsfire prevention