Finer points of etiquette

[legalmoose]

Unlike the rules on elevators, or public transit conveyances, the rules on who has priority, those entering or those exiting, are evidently not as clear when it comes to multi-user public restrooms (single user restrooms are the same as elevators and public transit - the person exiting has priority of use of the door(s) and should be allowed to exit before the other person enters).

If the restroom is large enough to permit it, the person exiting should hold the door and allow the person entering to do so. Presumably the person exiting has completed his or her appointed task and should feel relieved rather than pressed, while the person entering may feel a greater sense of urgency for the facilities. So, if you find yourself exiting a multi-user public restroom, please allow the other person to enter, preferably while graciously holding the door open. They will appreciate the gesture, or at least not snarl at you as block their need to take care of potentially urgent physical needs.