As we’re in the run up to Halloween, we’ve decided to do something a little different today….
We’re sharing something a little spooky about elevators – and it’s all linked to a superstition.
Here’s a clue…. it’s all about triskaidekaphobia!
But, before we explain, we have a question: Have you ever noticed how some buildings - and therefore elevators and lifts - seem to skip the 13th floor?
Well, you’re not imagining it!.......
Due to the fear and long-held superstition surrounding the number 13 – or triskaidekaphobia as it’s also known – some buildings do avoid using the number 13.
Instead they opt for alternatives like 12A and some even rebrand the 13th floor as floor M, given that M is the 13th letter of the alphabet.
While it’s more commonly associated with the US, it's not unheard of in the UK, especially in hotels, office buildings, and high-rises, as many developers choose to omit having 13th floors to avoid unsettling potential tenants, or guests, who might consider it to be unlucky.
Although it’s not a building code requirement here in the UK, it’s a nod to customer comfort and psychology.
You can find out more about this superstitious topic from the BBC here: https://lnkd.in/eg9_xDrA.
So, next time, you’re in an elevator, take a peek—does it have a 13th floor?
And if it doesn’t, then what’s in its place instead?
Have you spotted a missing 13th floor before? If so where?
Pearson Consult is Staffordshire-based and proud to be a leading independent engineering consultancy in the UK.
For more please connect with our founder and Director Philip Pearson, CEng, MCIBSE, MIET and fellow Director Mike Pearson here on LinkedIn, call +44(0) 3301 335579, email info@pearsonconsult.com, or visit https://lnkd.in/eM7ez-fK
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Area Sales Manager at GARDENA UK
3moAmazing work Nick, looks great 👍🏼