Cambridge University has sparked controversy by installing health and safety posters warning some of Britain’s brightest students about the dangers of using mobile phones on stairs.
The prestigious institution has placed notices across its campus instructing undergraduates on basic stair safety, prompting criticism from students who feel they are being treated like children.
The safety campaign features stark warnings about staircase accidents.
The posters depict an image of a man lying at the bottom of stairs while holding a mobile phone.
A clear message reads: “Heads up, phones down! Don’t be the next accident. Thank you for not using your phone.”
The university has gone further by including a QR code on the posters, linking students to a dedicated website, according to The Sun.
The website allows students and staff to report any accidents or near-misses related to mobile phone use on stairs.
Students have reacted with bemusement and frustration to the safety campaign.
“Why would anybody report a near miss episode of staircase use?” questioned student Gennaro Dello Ioio.
“Hi, I just saw this guy who was using his phone while going down the stairs, he tripped, and almost fell.”
He sarcastically added: “Will the university immediately send its police to arrest him?”
One student, who wished to remain anonymous, was more direct in their criticism.
“Utter woke gibberish,” they said. “Why are they treating the cleverest young people in the UK like blithering idiots?”
The university has defended its safety campaign, pointing to real incidents that prompted the measure.
“Some may find them amusing but they were put up following a number of accidents, and near misses, where people were using phones as they descended stairs,” a university spokesperson said.
The institution emphasised its commitment to student welfare.
“The university takes the health and safety of its staff and students seriously,” the spokesperson added.
https://www.gbnews.com/news/cambridge-university-woke-stairs-health-and-safety-posters