For those library visitors browsing through the new East Wing of D.H. Hill, a stop in the men’s bathroom could become an interesting experience.
Students and staff have reported lighting problems to library workers such as Jeanne Hammer, the assistant director for finance and administration for the library, as the motion sensors in the lights have provided for some awkward moments in the bathrooms.
The lights are activated by any motion near them or when someone enters the room, but if someone is on the toilet for too long, the lights may turn off. This predicament is exacerbated by the fact that stall doors only swing outward.
“There may be something defective with the sensors, because they should be staying on for 30 minutes now,” Hammer said. “But if students are saying otherwise, we’ll need to get it checked.”
According to Hammer, the sensors were originally set for 15 minutes. But shortly after the East Wing’s grand opening, a faculty member complained of the problem. This coupled with student complaints on The Wolf Web about the lights.
“The electrical contractor changed it to 30 minutes right after the wing opened, after the staff member had the problem,” Hammer said. “So now I’m just wondering if they’re defective.”
But for those who suffer from the experience of the bathroom darkness, Hammer has a tip.
“I’ve heard if you clap your hands loud enough, they do come back on, but I have not tried myself,” Hammer said.
Saving electricity is the primary reason for the sensors, according to Hammer, but safety is also an issue.
“The assumption is that if someone was lurking around, then the sensor would pick it up,” Hammer said.
She assured that if the problems persists, it is an issue maintenance will deal with.