Abstract: A timing apparatus for holding a door open for a controlled period of time before releasing it for closure. The timing apparatus includes a switch operable to produce a switching signal. A first energizing control is coupled to the switch and is responsive to the switching signal for producing a first signal. An electromagnetic device is coupled to the first energizing control and is energizable in response to the first signal. A first timing circuit is coupled to the first energizing control and is responsive to the first signal to generate a first timing signal of predetermined duration and corresponding to the switching signal. The first energizing control is further responsive to the first timing signal thereby to remain in the state of providing the first signal for such predetermined duration. A second timing circuit is coupled to the first timing circuit and is responsive to the termination of the first timing signal to produce a second timing signal of second predetermined duration.