Doorman (profession)

Hotel doormen in London

A doorman (also porter in British English)^[1] is an individual hired to provide courtesy and security services at a residential building or hotel. They are particularly common in urban luxury highrises. At a residential building, a doorman is responsible for opening doors and screening visitors and deliveries. He will often provide other courtesy services such as signing for packages, carrying luggage between the elevator and the street, or hailing taxis for residents and guests.

History

The occupation dates back at least to the time of Plautus under the Roman Republic where its name was iānitor (from iānua, 'door', the root of both "January" and "janitor").

Modern era

The United States House of Representatives had an official doorkeeper until the post was abolished in 1995.

In New York City, doormen and elevator operators are unionized and typically represented by SEIU 32BJ. They last went on strike in 1991, and other strikes were narrowly averted in 2006 and 2010.^[2]

See also

• Bouncer (doorman)
• Property caretaker
• Concierge
• Receptionist

References