ABSTRACT
This chapter distinguishes between two very different types of confined space emergencies. The first type are those where confined space hazards are recognized and precautions have been taken, but the control program has broken down. In these cases, emergency planning efforts provide a safety net to catch the human errors, equipment failures and unforeseen circumstances that slip through holes in the program. The second type of emergencies are those where in the most severe situations, entrants were overcome by a hazardous atmosphere and incident management was provided by the local fire department or other emergency services personnel. The chapter focuses on emergency planning as an element of a comprehensive entry program. The specific equipment required for emergency response depends on the types of incidents expected. In general the inventory is likely to include air-supplied respirators, first aid supplies, portable fire extinguishers, communications equipment and retrieval devices.
