Urinal etiquette explained
Spatial Reserve in the Presence of a Substantial Occupant
QUESTION 6/20
An unusually broad visitor does not occupy several numbered fixtures. He does, however, increase the practical importance of preserving room beside the one he occupies.
The situation
Classic Marble · Entrance: Lower right.
| Position | State |
|---|---|
| 1 | Available |
| 2 | Available |
| 3 | Available |
| 4 | Available |
| 5 | Large visitor |
Recommended position: 1
A local physical fact
The substantial gentleman stands at position five. All four positions to his left are empty. Position one places the greatest available distance between the player and that occupant without introducing another neighbour, an obstruction or a privacy compromise.
No invented arithmetic
There is no need to assign the gentleman a numerical coefficient or to speculate about his intentions. The drawing supplies the relevant physical distinction. The left terminal also reduces exposure to future arrivals along the row and is farther from the right-hand entrance. These are consistent supporting advantages.
Conclusion
Position one is recommended. Respect for another person’s space need not depend on first learning whether his shoulders are interested in negotiation.
In plain language
Big bloke on the right. Take the far left. His shoulders do not need company.