Which way do you open a door?
The question "Which way do you open a door?" can refer to two different aspects: the direction the door swings (inward or outward) and the physical method used to operate it (push or pull). Understanding both is key to proper door use.
Doors are designed to open in a specific direction, either inward into a room or outward into a connecting space like a hallway or the exterior. The chosen direction is based on various factors, including building codes, safety requirements, and the intended use of the space.
Inward Opening Doors
Doors that open inward are very common, particularly for entry into individual rooms. This design offers several advantages:
- Safety from Collision: If a door opens inward, you are significantly less likely to accidentally collide with someone passing by in the adjacent hallway when you open the door from the inside. This design prioritizes safety.
- Enhanced Security: With the hinges typically located on the inside when a door opens inward, they are protected from being easily tampered with from the exterior, adding a layer of security.
- Easier Emergency Entry: In emergency situations, such as a child accidentally locking themselves inside, it is often easier for someone outside the room to gain entry by forcing the door inward, as described in safety guidelines where it's noted "it's easier to break down a door by pushing it forward."
Outward Opening Doors
Conversely, some doors are designed to open outward. This is frequently seen with exterior doors (to save interior space and facilitate emergency exit) and doors leading to areas where an inward swing would obstruct the flow of movement or use of space.
Method of Opening (Push or Pull)
Beyond the swing direction, opening a door requires a physical action, usually a push or a pull. This method is determined by the door's specific hardware and how it is hung.
- Push Doors: These doors typically require you to apply force to the door panel or a push bar, moving the door away from you.
- Pull Doors: These doors usually have a handle or knob that you grasp, pulling the door towards you.
In summary, determining "which way" to open a door involves recognizing both the direction it is designed to swing (inward or outward, with inward offering specific safety and security benefits) and the physical action (push or pull) indicated by its hardware.
