Why do most bathroom doors in offices open inwards?

Question

In this age of heightened focus on hygiene many coworkers realize that not everybody washes their hands after going to the bathroom. Since most bathroom doors open inwards they end up using a paper towel to open the door. Some bathrooms have a trash can by the door, but if one isn't there some folks throw the towel on the floor (although some do take it with them and dispose of it properly).

It seems to me that this problem - as well as an easier exit in case of emergency (e.g. fire) would be obviated if the door simply opened outwards.

While it wouldn't be good to have a door open outwards directly into a hallway (I can see the Dilbert cartoon for that already) the door could be positioned within a cove or an indentation so it wouldn't swing into a hallway.

Any ideas why this isn't done (at least that I've seen)?

Answer 1

Because if it opened outward, you would brain people walking down the corridor.

Answer 2

Some offices do not have the room for an indentation and if the door open to the outside you could open it on someone carrying much paperwork that could go flying everywhere or on a client that you would loose. Also it could cause many a black eye and how would it sound to say that you got a black eye at work. It is for safety reasons.♪

Answer 3

One if you open the doors while inside ? You will not hit someone who is standing near the door. Two if anyone needed help the door would be easier to kick if the door opens inwards. Three ? Perhaps is you forgot to lock the door you could always stop the door from opening all the way.

Answer 4

Unfortunately for code the Fire Safety Standards state this very thing for the same reasons you all ready said .But if we all could get together and come up with a safe alternative we might could convince them .How about mechanical openers?They have them at the SS Adm. Just a thought..