CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The combination of environmental conditions and work loads Encountered during underground mine rescue exercises has resulted in unacceptable physical strain on rescuers before they reach the limits of the breathing apparatus. The condition of rescuers and not the remain ing capacity of a breathing apparatus must be the limiting factor when planning emergency operations in thermally stressful environments. Guidelines provided by European rescue agencies provide a good framework fo planning rescue operations with fit teams and adequate rest regimens