DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am the janitor at a truck stop. What is the best way for me (a man) to announce myself when entering the women’s restroom to clean it?

I start with calling out, “Hello. Janitor. Is anyone in here?” but it just doesn’t sound right. Some ladies say nothing in response, and if I didn’t look under all the stall doors, I would have walked in on them. Other ladies sound completely panic-stricken, like I’m going to storm right in.

I work the night shift, and there is not another lady on staff to ask.

GENTLE READER: A solution to this is in use in most American airports today, although Miss Manners is unaware of the identity of the clever colleague of yours who first put it into practice.

Acquire a small sign saying that the facility is being cleaned, and place it in front of the entrance to the women’s restroom — then leave it there while you go work on the men’s room. That should give anyone in the women’s restroom enough time to clear out, allowing you to proceed there with a clear conscience.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.