Why We Pull Doors That Say Push

Have you ever pulled a door that says push? Yes! It's a common mistake that we all make at some point in our lives, and it can lead to some embarrassing and frustrating moments. Let's explore why this happens and what can be done to avoid it.

The Frequency of the Mistake

Almost everyone has pulled a “push” door at some point. I myself have made this mistake numerous times. The majority of the time, we continue to pull until we figure out the correct action. It is a universal experience, and many people do it almost every day.

Reasons for the Mistake

There are several reasons why we make this mistake. One of the primary factors is the type of door handles used. Long, horizontal handles that are typically used for pushing a door are also used to pull a door open. In some cases, it is simply that we are not paying attention or that we are just being careless.

The Impact on Buildings and Safety

Unfortunately, the misuse of door handles can have significant implications. In commercial buildings, it can lead to frustration and awkward moments, wasting valuable time and energy as individuals struggle to unlock the doors from the inside. For office buildings, it can be particularly problematic, as it may delay business operations or cause inconvenience to staff.

Common Practices and Their Limitations

Many buildings, especially in India, follow a common practice of installing handles on both sides of the door. This design assumes that the same type of handle (usually a pull handle) is placed on both sides, regardless of whether the door is meant to be pushed or pulled. The result is that both push and pull actions are possible, leading to confusion and mistakes.

Solutions to the Problem

To avoid this issue, it is essential to follow a standardized design in which handle plates are installed on the side of the door that is to be pushed, and pull handles are installed on the other side. This design makes it impossible to pull a door that is meant to be pushed, eliminating the common mistake.

Personal Habits and Disciplined Practice

Despite these design considerations, there are simple personal habits one can adopt to avoid the mistake. For instance, if a door is labeled “push,” one should pull it for 5 seconds to ensure that it opens before attempting to push. Similarly, if a sign says “pull,” one should push the door for 5 seconds to ensure it opens before pulling.

Conclusion

While the misinterpretation of door handles is a common issue, understanding the reasons behind it and adopting simple measures can significantly reduce the frequency of such mistakes. By following standardized designs and cultivating cautious habits, we can ensure a smoother and more efficient use of doors in our daily lives.