U.S. Public Restroom Toilet Seats Required to Have Front Gap Since 1955

A plumbing standard first adopted in 1955 requires every public restroom in the United States to use open-front toilet seats. The American Standard National Plumbing Code states that seats must be made of smooth, non-absorbent material and must be of the open-front type.

The design leaves a gap at the front of the seat. The gap reduces the area where skin contacts a surface previously used by others.

The open front also allows a hand to pass through for wiping without touching the seat. It further prevents urine from pooling on the front edge of the seat. California’s state plumbing code contains the same requirement. The rule applies only to facilities open to the public and does not affect residential toilets. 2 million views.