this post was submitted on 13 Jan 2025
971 points (98.7% liked)
196
16845 readers
3708 users here now
Be sure to follow the rule before you head out.
Rule: You must post before you leave.
founded 2 years ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments
The fact that stalls exist kinda makes me question why, outside of poorly aged "values" we even have gendered restrooms.
I don't know if it's the reason, or just a side effect, but I'm pretty sure it prevents a bunch of sexual assault, or at least makes some people feel safer.
I feel like that's the only justification I've ever really heard, but I find it to be rather flimsy. It assumes that someone willing to assault someone else would be deterred by a sign. It also assumes that assaults only happen across genders and not within, which is either very narrow-minded or willfully obstinate.
Personally, I would think individual unisex bathrooms that each contain their own sink would be the safest option. You enter fully aware and lock the door behind yourself, only leaving once you are fully aware and alert again. Given that the common area between stalls is essentially public, you could have cameras observing the entrance without invading privacy and capturing anyone attempting to force their way in or tailgate someone entering a stall. Better, safer, gender neutral.
If space efficiency is a priority, I would say just take a normal restroom, add better locks, stall walls that actually go the full height and all of the way to the ground, and have a urinal section around a corner so that it is fully out of view from the (security camera monitored) common area where the sinks are