Bathroom attendant
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Bathroom attendants are workers in North America stationed in a bathroom (does not contain a bath or shower) that provide tap water, soap, towels and an assortment of toiletries. They are a relatively recent phenomenon. Previously confined to extravagant restaurants or bars, bathroom attendants have begun to appear into mainstream society and can be found in moderately priced bars across metropolitan cities in North America.
It is often the case that these bathroom attendants can seem presumptuous, pressuring clientele to accept a spray of aftershave or an array of personal grooming services, in exchange for a tip.
It is thought by some that such services apply implied pressure to offer financial reward for a concievably limited service, and as such have seen the discussion of social etiquette in such situations. If you only have a big bill, does one offer it and then accept change? Or if you do not want such service and it is pressed upon you anyway, do you still tip?
Although this type of position is often seen as a limited service to patrons, there is often a need for the bathroom attendant to keep the bathroom clean and sanitary. This job aspect of the bathroom attendant usually goes unnoticed to the customer, thus a great number of people believe the bathroom attendant position to be a limited, unnecessary service.[citation needed]
The position has recently become popular among students and those in their mid-twenties in North America, who wish to make full-time money with part-time hours.[citation needed] At a moderately priced establishment, a bathroom attendant can make anywhere from $90 to $280 in a matter of five hours (one shift). In a higher priced establishment, an attendant can make upwards of $450 a shift. Most attendants do not make an hourly wage, and are totally reliant upon tips to make an earning, making the wages very conditional upon the amount of patrons entering the bathroom during the course of the shift.
[edit] Attendants in the UK
In recent years, a number of club and pubs in the UK have also gained attendants. These are generally seen as unnecessary and unpleasant additions to the establishment, gaining the nickname "Bog Trolls".
The name "Bog Troll" derives from "Bog", a British slang word for "toilet", and "Troll" because they inhabit the toilet demanding money, similar to a troll under a bridge, for a task it would appear the customer has been able to perform himself for many years (washing their hands).
It is generally viewed that if one doesn't submit themselves to the ignomy of Bog Troll's advances, they must refrain from washing their hands and have to permit to the inherent hygenic risk.
