ELEVATOR Etiquette

Definition of ETIQUETTE

: the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life (credits: Merriam-Webster)

Ladies and gentlemen, such is the definition of ETIQUETTE. How I wish I could give my two cents worth about the meaning of this word to the people at the lift minutes ago. ELEVATOR Etiquette to be exact. So what I did as I got to my office desk was to check on Elevator rules and etiquette. I wanted to be sure as well that I am not just being OC here or what. Coz I know for a fact that there is a rule to everything. Alas, I landed upon The Elevator Rules website. And FYI, all these just happened today... Aaargghh!!!

Scenario #1: 4 men who came in at the 10th floor and got off at the 9th floor! They weren't carrying anything big or bulky to cause them a lot of discomfort to use the stairs. Hello!!! Going down 15-20 steps would cause you harm.

As the Elevator Rules state:

If you are going up or down one floor, use the stairs! This rule should especially be observed during peak traffic times like morning and afternoon rush.
Exceptions:
1. When you have a cart, stroller or large packages
2. When the elevator is empty
3. If you are disabled or injured

Scenario #2: A lady jumps the queue never being mindful of others who are patiently waiting in line. Now, this lady politely (that's what I thought) stayed on one corner because she was using her mobile. She even had the courtesy to speak in a very low voice so as not to annoy or attract attention from the others. She was facing the elevator, as if she was waiting for her opportunity to run inside once the door opens. And there she goes. The arrow sign lights up, people coming out of the lift, us - making way for them to freely get out of the elevator car, the lady in the corner comes rushing, running, squeezing her way in. She was still on the phone as the elevator door closes, then of course signal went "pfft". She kept on saying "Hello" several times. Lol! No one is surprised. I see the other passengers grinning, too.

Scenario #3: Ladies with bulky bags, and men still with their backpacks on. Oh, my! Please, please. Have the decency to hold these items first to make way and give space to others.

As the Elevator Rules state:

When you find it necessary to take baggage onto an elevator, wait for an empty car when possible. If you must board an occupied elevator with baggage, be sure there is enough room for you and your baggage without violating the personal space of others.
Try to stay near the doors with baggage in order to displace the fewest number of passengers upon your exit.

Scenario #4: An agitated lady who we knew was running late for work this morning. This lady was dressed appropriately for work. She was so pleasing to look at until she cursed and cursed and even blamed the elevator door from passing by each and every floor. Total turn-off! She kept on looking at her watch, wishing that time would stop at that minute so she won't be tagged as late. She pressed on the 16th floor button, and would it be the fault of others if their office units are situated on the lower floors of the building. Each time the door would open, she would let go of a big sigh, and made an effort to reach for the close button. Once she got to her office floor, she rushed out of the lift and we heard her say "Nakakainis! Late na naman!" Haha! Not our fault lady! Master the art of managing your time wisely, eh!