What is polite tailgating?
A The authorized user is aware of the other person but may politely hold the door for the tailgater.
B Unauthorized users are aware that there is a tailgater.
C Authorized users are unaware that there is a tailgater.
D The authorized user is aware of the other person and blocks entry to the tailgater.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A: The authorized user is aware of the other person but may politely hold the door for the tailgater.
Polite tailgating is a term used to describe the situation where a person who is authorized to access a restricted space, such as a building or room, is aware of someone else trying to enter behind them (a tailgater) but allows them to enter by holding the door open. This action is typically done with the intent to be courteous, offering the person a chance to enter without needing to swipe or gain access themselves.
The key aspect of polite tailgating is that it involves the authorized user recognizing the presence of the tailgater and voluntarily making the decision to let them through. It’s a gesture of kindness and can help in situations where the tailgater may have forgotten their access card or is in a rush. However, it is important to note that while the action may be polite, it could also raise security concerns in environments where only authorized personnel are meant to enter.
The major distinction between polite tailgating and other forms of tailgating lies in the intent and awareness of the authorized user. Unlike unauthorized tailgating, where the authorized user might not even notice the person behind them, polite tailgating is intentional and done with full awareness. Although it’s a nice gesture, it should be done with caution, especially in places where security is a priority. Allowing someone to “tailgate” without proper access could unintentionally compromise safety or breach security protocols. Therefore, in some contexts, even polite tailgating may not be appropriate, especially in high-security areas.