Why Do Public Bathroom Stalls Have Gaps?

You thought this is an intern's fault? Nope! There are practical reasons why public bathroom stalls don't go all the way to the floor and have gaps:

In case someone needs help while locked inside a public bathroom stall, there's a gap.
Source: imago images / Mint Images

Reason #1: Emergency Rescue

Let's start with the most obvious reason: In case of an emergency, it's easier to reach the person who is suffering if there's a gap between the floor and the bathroom door. Additionally, if you're calling for help, other people can hear you more easily if the door doesn't close all the way down.