My comment spam filter recently placed in the moderation queue a comment that was relevant to the post. It had nothing to do with prescription drugs or “enhancement” or how to become independently wealthy (whatever in the world that really means).

The product was so intriguing that I was inspired not only to approve the comment, but I’m writing a post about it. And you’re reading it.

Called the StepNpull, it is a small, glaringly simple device that attaches to the bottom of any latchless door for hands-free opening. It relies on foot power, and was invented by three Alltell Wireless call center staffers in Missouri, where the Springfield Business Journal ran a great April 12 article about their motivation.

Not surprisingly, their reasons were perfectly in line with the concerns that my readers and I expressed in my post “Washing Your Hands.” I wonder if the “Mike” who left the comment there is co-inventor Mike Sewell.

Adding to the relevance is that Alltel happens to be an Arkansas company, and as most of you know, that’s our home state.

As forehead-smackingly “why didn’t I think of that” as it may seem, I wonder about the device’s widespread efficacy. Some doors are a difficult haul, and while the leg motion required seems fairly natural, the muscles used are relatively weak in the average person (I admit this is a guess based on my own miming action, but that’s the glory of opinion pieces!). In addition, some outsoles are nearly perfectly smooth, and would provide little grip on the device’s “lip.”

All that said, I can imagine the StepNpull’s feasability at most public restrooms and on other doors. The $19.99 price tag seems a little steep, but they’re not mass-producing yet, so that could go down substantially.

Now the only thing to watch out for is that boisterous co-worker who loves to burst through doorways whistling “Crazy Train.” Hey, at least I usually nail the Randy Rhoads solo.