Kotiinlähtöval

Kotiinlähtöval is a Finnish term that translates to "going-home light." It refers to a specific type of signal or light used to indicate that a workplace or establishment is closing for the day and that employees or customers should prepare to leave. While not a formal, universally recognized traffic signal, it has been a common practice in certain contexts, particularly in older or more traditional workplaces in Finland.

The kotiinlähtöval could manifest in various ways. Historically, it might have been a simple switch flipped to turn off main lights, leaving only minimal illumination. In some cases, a dedicated light, perhaps red or yellow, might have been illuminated near an exit or in a central area to signal the impending closure. The purpose was to provide a clear, non-verbal cue that the workday was ending and that it was time to pack up belongings and depart.

The practice of kotiinlähtöval has become less common with the advent of more standardized closing procedures and automated systems. However, the term itself remains a part of Finnish colloquialism, often used nostalgically or humorously to refer to the end of a work shift. It evokes a sense of routine and the shared experience of transitioning from work to personal time. The visual cue of the kotiinlähtöval was a simple yet effective way to manage the end of the operational day.