First, in some states (like MA) any location with a hazardous waste satellite area must have immediate access to a working phone or other emergency contact device, by anyone (custodian, facilities personnel, etc.).   I would not want to walk into a lab with a DEP inspector and have them ask the sole occupant "Where's your cell phone" and it's dead, they left it at the friend's place, etc.  The state fire code or the environmental regulations may mandate similar.  Don't expect your 'communications consultant' to have a clue about any regulations except "Kari's Law" compliance.  I have been there and done that...

Second, if the entire lab/hallway/building has EXCELLENT cell reception, I would love to know who the architects and communications planners are.  Even with 'wifi calling' we have dead spots.  My manager has a router in his office.  His cell calls get dropped all the time.  

Third, I bet the risk management/legal group would scream "THEY MUST" when the description of the hazards of the chemical work (fire, exposure) are described to them.  Imagine a student digging through their backpack to find their phone while they or a labmate have an exposure to something nasty (or infectious). 

The fancy new phones do everything but stay on the #$(*%&${(#* desk because they're so lightweight, and because of the expense, I think there is a drive to minimize their number.

Somehow, this rationing never seems to be suggested for the offices of the college/university VPs, deans, provost, or president, amirite?  Try telling the president to use their cell phone  or the hallway phone...

My two cents, not legal or business advice, and may not reflect the practices of any group I belong to or my employer...

Margaret