Is it rude to walk past someone on the stairs?

79 replies

Helpmeup · 07/08/2025 10:55

At my workplace, people don’t pass each other on the stairs. If someone reaches the staircase and there is already someone going up or down, they wait at the top or bottom for them to finish using the stairs. I don’t really understand why, it’s very wide and can probably fit 3 or 4 people next to each other, so the space isn’t the issue. Is it considered rude? If so, why?

OP posts:

50kHobbyJob · 07/08/2025 10:58

I don't think it's rude as such, but I was always told that it is unlucky (something to do with swords I think).

Ryeman · 07/08/2025 10:58

Isn't there an old wives' tale about it being bad luck to pass on the stairs? YANBU to pass if there are wide enough.

purplecorkheart · 07/08/2025 10:57

It is the same in our workplace and in my other settings in my experience.

Seeline · 07/08/2025 10:57

I think it's polite to wait if the stairs are narrow, someone is obviously having difficulty using thee stairs, or someone is carrying something awkward.

If the stairs are wide enough for 3-4 people then I think they are just prolonging the time they are away from their desks...

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